Powdery Mildew

Symptoms

The leaves will appear to have a white or gray film in the late summer causing the leaves to turn brown and drop early. The wind can blow spores from leaf to leaf.

What Will Happen To My Landscape?

Over time, Powdery Mildew does cause stress to plants and severe or repetitive infections will weaken the plant. While it will not necessarily kill outright, the plant or tree will become more susceptible to other problems and it may hasten plant defoliation, fall dormancy, and the infected plant may become extremely unsightly.

What Can I Do About Powdery Mildew?

Make sure your plants are in full sunlight in a well-drained area. Do not crowd plants. Air flow and ventilation will discourage mildew growth. Prune diseased plants to get rid of infected parts and increase airflow. Disinfect your pruning tool in a bleach solution of one part household bleach to four parts water after each cut. If the infestations are severe, remove and destroy the plants that are infected. Watering plants through the roots in the morning gives the plants the rest of the day to dry off, discouraging the establishment of diseases, including powdery mildew. Sulfur-based sprays are the most effective fungicide sprays for powdery mildew. Because these sprays can cause injury to some plants, read the label thoroughly before using and apply according to the directions. Depending on the severity of the damage, more than one fungicide application may be required for complete control. When combating powdery mildew its best to think of it as treating allergies, something that will never go away, but having fewer symptoms each year by having regular treatments. Combating powdery mildew can be a timely and unpleasant weekend task.

How Can Natural Way Help?

Prevention is the key in controlling powdery mildew. Here at Natural Way we have certified professionals who are used to preventing and controlling diseases like powdery mildew. Our 6 Point Protection Program will provide several critically timed sprays to the landscape that will help control and prevent powdery mildew, extend the life of the landscape and minimize overall damage.

Even though powdery mildew will not generally kill a plant by itself, the plant or tree will become more susceptible to other problems and its appearance will be unsightly.