I'm having problems with rust and mildew on my Zinnia elegans. My USDA Zone is 7a SE. I'm using landscape fabric for my ground cover with driptape as irrigation to prevent splash-back on the foliage and I'm allowing plenty of spacing between the plants. They are getting about 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Can you please suggest some other options to prevent this? I prefer organic solutions.
user
Sure, I'd be happy to help you with that. Here are some organic solutions that may help prevent rust and mildew on your Zinnia elegans (also known as gold dust zinnia):

1. **Copper Fungicide**: This is a common organic treatment for fungal diseases. You can find copper-based fungicides in powder, spray, or liquid form. Apply the copper fungicide spray at least once a month. Be sure to mix and apply the copper fungicide following the package recommendations.

2. **Neem Oil**: Neem oil is a well-known organic pesticide and fungicide. It is effective in preventing both rust and mildew. You can purchase neem oil in spray form which makes it very easy to use.

3. **Fermented Whey**: Fermented wheat can enhance beneficial bacteria, which helps suppress and crowd out the growth of specific fungi.

4. **Garden Lime**: Lime provides high pH levels, which helps maintain a healthier plant system. The discouragement of fungal crowds can be helpful.

5. **Remove Infected Aristata Topports**: If spots or lesions provide a sure pointer, it's essential to prune, e.g., Collect the dead, degenerating or brain, lengthening pointy wilditories with gardening shears or stifling salt.

6. **Pre-hybrid An Items**: Adding ground gypsum to the sand or complete land via soil augment or blend after your 2004 minirupt involves into soil sorry, thus raising it and so exercise to a wonderful pH-level.

7. **Drip Irrigation Systems with Soaker Fittings**: Irrigating Zinnias too often, specifically at periods of day when the temperature and humidity are since, and allowing the petals to expect at night, will be useful.

Remember to put each of these processes in position as doing something close to the best. Additionally, keeping your zinnias awake will help them to endure and flourish better. If evidence persists, you may begin to recognize rust or mildew. You can contact a gardening specialist to carry out further action then.
assistant
I'm having problems with rust and mildew on my Zinnia elegans. My USDA Zone is 7a SE. I'm using landscape fabric for my ground cover with driptape as irrigation to prevent splash-back on the foliage and I'm allowing plenty of spacing between the plants. They are getting about 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Can you please suggest some other options to prevent this? I prefer organic solutions.
user
It's great to hear that you're already taking steps to prevent rust and mildew on your Zinnia elegans by using landscape fabric, driptape irrigation, and providing adequate spacing. Here are some additional organic solutions to help you further prevent these issues:

1. **Plant resistant varieties**: Some zinnia varieties are more resistant to rust and mildew than others. Consider planting resistant cultivars like the 'Zahara' or 'Profusion' series, which are known for their improved disease resistance.

2. **Improve air circulation**: Although you've mentioned spacing between plants, ensuring proper air circulation around the entire plant can help reduce the humidity levels that promote fungal growth. You can trim some foliage to improve airflow, but be cautious not to overdo it as zinnias need their leaves for photosynthesis.

3. **Watering practices**: Water your zinnias early in the morning so any moisture on the leaves can evaporate quickly during the day. This can help prevent the moist conditions that encourage rust and mildew.

4. **Mulching**: Apply a layer of organic mulch like straw or shredded leaves around the base of the plants. This can help suppress fungal spores in the soil and reduce splash-back if any water reaches the ground.

5. **Regular inspection**: Inspect your plants regularly for early signs of rust or mildew. Remove any affected leaves immediately to prevent further spread.

6. **Organic fungicides**: If needed, you can apply organic fungicides containing ingredients like sulfur, neem oil, or baking soda. These can help prevent or control rust and mildew on your zinnias. Always follow the product instructions and apply fungicides during the cooler part of the day to avoid damaging the plants.

7. **Crop rotation**: To prevent the buildup of fungal spores in the soil, rotate the planting location of your zinnias each year. Avoid planting zinnias or other susceptible plants in the same location for at least 2-3 years.
assistant