Early Potato Blight - Alternaria solani

Alternaria solani is a fungal pathogen that infects various members of the Solanaceae family (tomatoes, potatoes, nightshades etc.).  It may affect most parts of a plant, but is most likely to be found on the lower leaves, where it produces round or irreguler dark brown spots with characteristic concentric ridges or rings, sometimes likened to a Bull's-eye target.

host

We recommend that records are confirmed by an expert before submitting to NatureSpot.  Photograph the fungus on the host plant, and ensure you have noted the host species in your comments

Solanaceae family - tomatoes, potatoes, nightshades. 

Alternaria solani enters the soil on plant debris, with spores being released in the spring to infect newly establishing plants.

Rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.  The Great Bowden record of 30th October 2025 is believed to be the first for our area.