DISEASE
 
   NAME
     Sooty Mould
     Various Sooty Mould Species 

Description
A fungal problem related to honeydew that is secreted from other insects. The fungus will not infect the host plant.

Symptoms
A soot-like dry black fungus appears on areas of the plant where honeydew is found. The fungus spreads and becomes thick restricting the plants capability to photosynthesize. The fungus can also appear on fruit spoiling its appearance and gives the plant an unattractive look.

   		Gardenia augusta

Source and Dispersal
It is found on other infected plants and soon spreads by wind to other susceptible plants.

Favoured Conditions
It is occurs when insects are producing honeydew, normally through the growing period.
	
Affected Plants
These fungi can found on most plants particular plants that are infected with scale insect that produces honeydew.

   Pittosporum eugenioides    Camellia japonica

Callicarpa species are infected with Black Mould (Meliola cookeana) with its black mycelium growing on all parts of the plant including twigs and leaves.

Non-chemical Control
To reduce sooty mould it is required to controlling insect numbers on the plant. Affected plants may have the dry sooty mould rubbed or hosed off. 

Chemical Control
Fungicides are not required, but the control of the insect producing honeydew is required.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.