Sunflower Disease

Question

My sunflowers have developed what I think is a disease in the top leaves surrounding the growth point. These leaves are dark brown and curling up on themselves. I have pulled a few leaves off and checked them for insect pests but there are no signs ofthat. I have found various diseases online but none match these symptoms. The seeds have been germinated in my greenhouse in trays of compost, so there should be no soil borne disease. I did have this problem last year though and some plants died, others had poor flowers.

Answer 1

If you found no signs of pests, it could be due to a fungus of some sort (of which there are many). Treat them with fungicide, like neem oil, and see if this helps any.