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Powdery Mildew
What Is It?
Powdery mildew is a disease caused by several different types of fungi. Infected plants display white powdery spots on the leaves and stems.
What Causes It?
Powdery mildew fungi seem to be everywhere. They overwinter in plant debris and begin producing spores in the spring. These spores are carried to plants by wind, insects, and splashing water. Conditions that encourage the growth and spread of powdery mildew include:
- Dampness or high humidity
- Crowded plantings
- Poor air circulation
What Does It Looks Like?
This fungal disease is easy to identify because of the characteristic white to light grayish powdery growth, most often on leaves. It can cause stunting, curling of leaves, chlorosis, premature leaf drop and deformation of flower buds.
How Can I Control It?
Though unsightly, the disease does no permanent damage and does not usually require chemical controls. The key to control is good sanitation.
- To reduce the overwintering of spores, thoroughly remove diseased foliage and stems at the end of the growing season.
- Some cultivars are somewhat resistant, to powdery mildew; look for those first when choosing plants.
- Try to increase the air circulation around the affected plants by thinning the bed a bit or selectively pruning any low hanging trees or shrubs.
- If you decide to control the disease with chemicals, use Fertilome Liquid Systemic Fungicide and follow the instructions on the label.
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