Powdery Mildew Disease

Powdery Mildew

Powdery Mildew

Affected Plants:

Many Plants, Fruit Trees, Cucurbits, Peas, Tomatoes, Lettuce

Symptoms & Effects:

White powder-like substance covering leaves, causing defoliation.

Control Method:

Triforine or Bicarbonate of soda solution

Chemical Fungicide Treatment:

Dinocap (21 days), Triforine (3 days)

About this disease

Powdery Mildew: A Floury Foe in Your Garden

Powdery mildew, a common fungal disease, casts a dusty shadow over a wide range of plants, from roses and grapes to pumpkins and cucumbers. Let’s unveil its floury secrets and equip you with the knowledge to keep your garden thriving:

Unmasking the Dusty Invader:

  • Leaves: The most prominent sign is a white, powdery growth on the upper surface of leaves. This layer resembles spilt flour, often starting on younger leaves and expanding as the disease progresses.
  • Stunted growth: Infected leaves may curl, yellow, and eventually drop off, leading to stunted plant growth.
  • Fruits and flowers: In some cases, powdery mildew can also affect fruits and flowers, causing distortion, blemishes, and reduced quality.

South African and Afrikaans Names:

  • Afrikaans: Poeieragtige skimmel
  • English: Powdery mildew

Why it’s a Disease:

Powdery mildew weakens plants by hindering photosynthesis, reducing their ability to produce food and energy. This leads to stunted growth, lower yields, and even plant death in severe cases. The floury layer also disrupts water and nutrient absorption, further impacting plant health.

Combating the Floury Menace:

  • Prevention is key:
    • Choose resistant plant varieties whenever possible.
    • Ensure good air circulation around plants by avoiding overcrowding.
    • Water at the base of plants, avoiding overhead watering that spreads spores.
    • Practice crop rotation to break disease cycles in soil.
    • Remove and destroy infected plant material to prevent further spread.
  • Fungicides: If prevention fails, fungicides can offer protection. Opt for sulfur-based or targeted fungicides, following label instructions carefully.
  • Natural alternatives: Neem oil, potassium bicarbonate, and homemade sprays with milk-water solutions can offer eco-friendly options for mild infections.

Additional Tips:

  • Monitor your plants regularly, especially during dry weather when powdery mildew thrives.
  • Act quickly if you suspect an infection to prevent its spread to other plants.
  • Don’t despair! Powdery mildew can be managed with a proactive approach and timely intervention.

Remember, knowledge is your best weapon against powdery mildew. By understanding its characteristics, practising good hygiene, and employing preventative methods, you can create a garden where your plants can flourish, leaving no room for this floury foe.

3 Vendors

Disease Control Chemicals / Fungicide

EFEKTO FUNGINEX

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EFEKTO LAWN FUNGICIDE

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EFEKTO KUMULUS WG

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