[Elmarto]

I have noticed a couple of specs of rust on my garlic, I am going to cut the leaves off, just wondering if there is anything I can do to delay the onset.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated, I do try to avoid using chemicals but wouldn't rule it out!

Thanks

[Trikidiki]

There isn't anything that is authorised for use against rust on garlic.

I spray mine with a weak milk solution, as I don't have a 'control' I couldn't say that it definitely works but the rust seems to have been less since I have done this. I do the same with leeks.

[Elmarto]

Thanks triki, what kind of strength do you make it to?

I'll give it a go in the morning!

[sunshineband]

I find that adding a scant handful of Epsom salts per square metre to the soil helps strengthen the cell walls against rust attack. A quick foliar spray may also help in the same way.

As Trikidiki said, there are no actual "cures" for rust, only ways of heading it off at the pass.

[BabbyAnn]

You could try the aspirin treatment, and/or a solution of bicarbonate spray with some vegetable oil and a little washing up liquid (known as the Cornell Formula), and/or increase potassium levels in the soil.  I've never used them so don't know how effective - I try to ensure the planting arrangement allows ventilation (spaced further apart than recommended, rows in the direction of the wind, beds are weed free to reduce humidity risk) but the wet winter weather may have been a little too much this year so might give the others a try.

[Trikidiki]

Nothing scientific, I just pour a bit of milk in the sprayer and then fill up with water, I'd guess about 10% milk.
I use semi-skimmed because that's what I have anyway, don't know if that makes a difference.

I think the theory is that it creates colonies of bacteria and/or moulds on the leaf surface which limits the foothold the rust can make. A bit like drinking Yakult promotes 'good' bacteria to the detriment of the 'bad'. Doesn't kill the 'bad' or eliminate them completely but swamps them to the point they have less of an effect.

[Elmarto]

I did a bit of googling and made it this morning at about 10-20%. Will see what happens.

I haven't grown garlic for a couple of years as last time it got rust but a bit later in the year. They are in a different spot, in a grid with 8 inch centres.

I will persevere and hope I can keep the rust off til they are ready!