The pathogens that cause powdery mildew are a common garden problem. How to treat powdery mildew organically is common too. The fungus, Podosphaera xanthii, appears as a grayish-white fuzzy substance on plant leaves when there is an above-normal amount of rainfall and/or when the plants are crowded.
All plants are susceptible to developing this destructive fungus. At the first sign of a grayish-white fuzz on the leaves, use one of these organic methods to get rid of powdery mildew.
Early Signs
The first signs are pale yellow spots on top of the plant leaves. These spots will soon turn into grayish-white fuzz that will spread across the leaves. When powdery mildew infects the majority of the foliage, the plant becomes weak and the produce ripens prematurely. The leave shrivel and exposed produced can become sunburned.
Organic Treatments
- Mix 1-tablespoon of baking soda, 1-tablespoon vegetable oil, and 1-teaspoon of liquid dish soap into a gallon of water (3.785 litres).
- Mix 4-tablespoons of baking soda and 2-tablespoons of Murphy’s oil soap into a gallon of water (3.785 litres).
- Mix 1-part milk and 10-parts water.
- Neem oil. Follow label instructions for usage.
** Pour either mix into a spray bottle and saturate the infected plants. Be sure to soak the underside of leaves thoroughly.
** Test a couple of leaves first to ensure the treatment will not burn the plant.
** Powdery mildew is a formidable garden enemy and can easily build up a resistance to any type of treatment. For best results, use at least 2 different organic treatments and alternate their usage each week.
Causes And Prevention
* Overcrowded plants create an environment where powdery mildew can develop and spread rapidly. Space plants correctly so they will get plenty of air circulation.
Prune established plants to promote good air circulation.
* Over-feeding causes plants to grow too quickly, which can cause powdery mildew since the fungus typically attacks the new plant growth first.
* Damp and humid conditions promote the development of powdery mildew. Above normal rainfall during the spring and summer often lead to an outbreak of this plant fungus. Over-watering indoor potted plants or having them in a too humid environment will cause powdery mildew.
* Clean garden tools to prevent powdery mildew from spreading between plants. After working around infected plants, use rubbing alcohol, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or diluted bleach to wipe down your tools before moving on to the next plant.
* Protect your plants by creating enough space between them for air to circulate and sunlight to reach the plant.
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