Powdery mildew on plants is a common problem on many plants. It is a fungal disease, and although unsightly, does not usually kill the plants.
The problem is causes by high humidity, moisture and poor air circulation.
You can minimise the occurrence by watering plants in the morning and never watering the foliage.
How to prevent Powdery Mildew.
By watering the plant around the roots the foliage is less likely to have the combination of moisture and warmth that provide a breeding ground for this fungal disease.
If a plant is affected, remove the worst of the leaves and pick up any that have fallen onto the ground. This minimises the problem spreading.
If you are in a position where powdery mildew is a problem due to humidity, you can try to plant so that air circulation is improved. Air flow helps reduce humidity.
Healthy plants are less susceptible, so fertilise well through the year.
Powdery Mildew Organic Spray
Powdery mildew can be controlled using organic means from very common ingredients. The basis of the spray is that it is Alkaline, and fungal spores prefer acidity to alkalinity.
You can make you own alkaline Powdery Mildew spray using the following very common recipe.
- 1 ltr of water
- 100 ml of full cream milk
- 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid.
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil
- 1 tsp of carb soda.
Mix the ingredients together well and then use a spray to cover the stems, tops and bottoms of the leaves.
All of the ingredients have a purpose.
- The oil helps the spray stick and resist rain.
- The Detergent acts to help the spray penetrate.
- The Carb Soda is highly alkaline
- The Milk coats the the surface and suffocate the spores.