Do you need to learn how to treat powdery mildew? Powdery mildew is a grayish fungus that can affect fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. This page will help you learn how to identify, prevent, and treat powdery mildew.

No matter where you live, if you garden some of your plants will probably be affected by powdery mildew at some point. There are steps you can take to minimize the chances of your plants becoming infected, and to get rid of powdery mildew if it has taken hold.

Powdery mildew usually shows up during the summer months. Plants will be covered by a whitish-grayish film on the leaves, flowers, or fruit. Growth may be stunted, and leaves may be curled and distorted.

1. When purchasing plants, look for plants that are bred to be resistant to powdery mildew.
2. Plant in full sun. Sun helps prevent powdery mildew from taking hold.
3. Use drip lines to water your plants, so the roots get watered, but the leaves don't.
4. Allow adequate space between plants so that here is good air circulation.

1. Remove and destroy badly infected plants from the garden. Do not compost infected plants.
2. Spray remaining plants with an anti-transpirant, such as Wilt-Pruf, to prevent germination and spread of any remaining spores.
3. Use a systematic fungicide such as benomyl or triforine on ornamental plants. DO not use a systematic fungicide on fruits or vegetables unless the package specifically states it is safe to use on edible plants.
4. Some biological fungicides use beneficial bacteria to eradicate powdery mildew. These are generally nontoxic to people and pets.http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7494.html
5. Horticultural oils and sulfur applications may also be helpful, but shouldn't be used within 2 weeks of each otherhttp://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7494.html