Dirt - Ask Extension
I had rhubarb plants in dirt next to some trees and the rhubarb plants have a red spot on them which according to the internet means a fungus. If I ta...
Knowledgebase
Dirt #929301
Asked April 22, 2026, 8:39 PM EDT
I had rhubarb plants in dirt next to some trees and the rhubarb plants have a red spot on them which according to the internet means a fungus. If I take the rhubarb plants out can I still use the dirt.
Lake of the Woods County Minnesota
Expert Response
The red spots are Ramularia rhei fungus. Fungi thrive in wet humid conditions. Good air circulation is beneficial in drying the leaves to reduce fungal diseases. Remove those leaves with spot and then after a hard frost in the fall remove all rhubarb leaves.
The dirt/soil is fine to reuse!
Paul -Master Gardener volunteer
