My problem looked to me like a disease. The leaves turned brown and curled. I just talked about it with other gardeners. In conversation I learned that leafhoppers had invaded the state on warm winds from the south and they were the cause of the trouble. Without questioning further I assumed that the leafhoppers had brought some disease with them that had killed the plants.
Assumptions are always dangerous.
They are a major factor in causing wars, the most frequent root of marital discord and, in general, the underlying reason for misunderstandings and disputes. In this case my assumption kept me from learning the truth when information was available. First, I assumed that a brown leaf-hopping insect that I have seen in the garden numerous times was a leafhopper. I have never identified this insect as it does no apparent harm. I don't think I ever saw one.