Mildew is a problem that can occur inside a home, outdoors and on any surface that has been exposed to moisture. In the case of plants, however, the appearance of mildew is the cause of a fungal disease. Often referred to as powdery mildew, this fungus is visible on plants as a white, powdery substance on the surface of stems and leaves. This mildew affects everything from vegetable plants to houseplants. The spots of white will appear larger and more widespread as the disease progresses. If not curtailed, powdery mildew will eventually overtake a plant and cause it to die. Use these tips to prevent otherwise healthy plants from succumbing to fungal disease.
1Water plants in the morning. Watering early allows the water to evaporate off of leaves before evening, keeping the plant dry for a longer period.Ad
2Water plants at soil level. Pour water close to the base of the plant and avoid getting too much water on the leaves and stems.
3Remove old plant material from the area where the plant will be contained. Many diseases from earlier plants can be transferred to new plant material, and can linger on old plant debris or roots.
4Clean any planting tools, such as trowels or clippers. Wash all tools thoroughly after each use to prevent the spread of fungal disease.
5Maintain a balanced soil. Over-watered soil allows bacteria to form and leads to fungal disease and powdery mildew.
6Plant clean seeds. Use new seeds that have not previously been placed in the planting area.
7Keep plants separate. Place plants apart from one another so that they are able to take airflow. More air will allow for less moisture buildup.
8Plant closely related vegetables in different parts of your garden. Varieties of vegetable plants that are close in species will spread disease more easily from one plant to another.
9Weed your garden. Remove any weeds that come in close contact with your plants since they can also carry fungal disease.
10Apply solutions to reduce mildew.
- Create a mildew spray. Combine 1 gallon (3.78 liters) of water, 1 tbsp. (15 ml) of dishwashing liquid, 1 tbsp. (15 ml) of baking soda and 1 tbsp. (15 ml) of vegetable oil in a spray bottle. Spray the tops and undersides of all leaves with the mixture once per week to prevent further spread of mildew.
- Combine 1 part skim milk to 9 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the leaves of the plant weekly.
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- Prior to planting a garden or buying houseplants, select disease-resistant, adapted varieties of plants in order to lessen the chance of the development of fungal disease and mildew.
Things You'll Need
- Dishwashing liquid
- Vegetable oil
- Baking soda
- Skim milk
- Spray bottle