Plant Disease Type:
Fungus |
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| This disease
attacks: |
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Leaves and steams of plants. |
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| General Information
about
Powdery mildew : |
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants. Powdery mildew diseases are caused by many different species of fungi in the order Erysiphales. It is one of the easier diseases to spot, as its symptoms are quite distinctive. Infected plants display white powder-like spots on the leaves and stems. The lower leaves are the most affected, but the mildew can appear on any part of the plant that shows above the ground. As the disease progresses, the spots get larger and thicker as massive numbers of spores form, and the mildew spreads up and down the length of the plant.
Powdery mildew of grape
Erysiphe necator (or Uncinula necator) causes powdery mildew of grapes. It produces common odors such as 1-octen-3-one and (Z)-1,5-octadien-3-one.
Powdery mildew of wheat and barley
Blumeria graminis, the fungus that causes powdery mildew of grasses, can persist between seasons in wheat stubble that is left in the field, or in wheat that is left to overwinter. It thrives in cool humid conditions. Controlling the disease involves eliminating those conditions as much as possible. Wheat plants should not be overcrowded in the field. This allows better air circulation among the lower parts of the plants, which lowers the humidity levels. Nitrogen fertilizers encourage lots of leafy growth, and in farming systems that use them they should be used sparingly to control powdery mildew. Crop rotation with non-host plants is another way to keep mildew infection to a minimum. Reducing splash from contaminated soil also helps control spores. Chemical control is possible with anti-fungals such as triademefon and propiconazole. Some farmers are experimenting with spraying plants with waste milk, with varying degrees of success.
Powdery mildew of onions
The fungus causing powdery mildew of onions is Leveillula taurica (also known by its anamorph name, Oidiopsis taurica). It also attacks the artichoke.
| This plant disease
can commonly be found in these places: |
| How to get rid
of or kill this disease: |
What Causes Powdery Mildew?
Powdery mildew fungi seem to be everywhere. They overwinter in plant debris begin producing spores in the spring. These spores are carried to your plants by wind, insects and splashing water. Conditions that encourage the growth and spread of powdery mildew include:
•Dampness or high humidity (Not common during rainy seasons or in extreme heat)
•Crowded plantings
•Poor air circulation
Controlling Powdery Mildew
•Choose healthy plants and keep they growing healthy
•Try and find a powdery mildew resistant cultivar, if your area is susceptible
•Don’t plant non-resistant varieties in the shade
Once Your Plants are Infected:
•Remove and destroy all infected plant parts
•Improve air circulation by thinning and pruning
•Don’t fertilized until the problem is corrected. Powdery mildew favors young, succulent growth
•Don’t water plants from above
•Apply a fungicide: There are many fungicides available. Check the label to be sure they are safe and effective on the type of plant that is infected. Look for ingredients such as: potassium bicarbonate, neem oil, sulfur or copper. There are also chemical fungicides, such as triforine, that can be used on ornamental plants. There is also a home remedy made from baking soda that is effective.
Most fungicides will need repeat applications every 7 - 14 days, for continuous protection. Always follow the label instructions for both application and waiting period before harvest
Powdery Mildew on Phlox
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