Step 2: Remove wilting, diseased or yellowed leaves at the bottom
Shoots that grow close to the ground receive significantly less sunlight and do not bear fruit. If the plant has dense foliage at the bottom, air cannot circulate freely, which promotes rot and the spread of various diseases. Therefore, the leaves at the bottom along with the side shoots must be removed. Wilted leaves that touch the ground must also be cut off in good time. They are the perfect entry points for fungal pathogens. They first colonize the lower parts of the plant and then spread upwards. If you notice that the plant leaves have changed color or have yellow, black or gray spots, cut or pick these off too.
