Broad-leaved dock is a vigorous perennial native to Europe and naturalised across much of the world. It forms a deep taproot and a rosette of large, oval leaves, sending up tall flowering stalks bearing dense clusters of small greenish flowers that ripen to rusty-brown seeds.
Often considered a weed of pastures, gardens, and waste ground, it is remarkably persistent thanks to its long-lived seeds and stubborn root system. Despite its reputation, its leaves have a traditional use of soothing nettle stings, and it provides food for various insects and birds.
Dock Leaf Rust
Bright orange to brown pustules on the undersides of leaves, with yellow spotting on the upper surface. Heavily infected leaves yellow and die back.
Remove and destroy infected leaves. Since dock is a weed, full removal of the plant is the most effective control. Avoid composting infected material.
Downy mildew
Yellowing on top of leaves with grey-purple fuzz underneath. Spreads rapidly in humid conditions.
Remove affected leaves. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Copper spray as preventive.