What is powdery mildew?
at mildew it is a leaf disease caused by a fungus. A distinction is made between real and downy mildew. Although both species are similar in terms of the course of the disease and the consequences for the plant, they nevertheless have different symptoms.
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Symptoms of powdery mildew
- brown, washable covering
- the tops of the leaves are affected
Downy mildew symptoms
- Upper and lower leaf surface affected
- White coating on the leaves
- Yellow spots on the leaves
Causes of powdery mildew
Powdery mildew occurs both outdoors and indoors. Mostly it attacks weakened plants in particular. A wrong location or wrong watering behavior are the most common care mistakes that favor an infestation. The houseplants are often too dry or grow when the humidity is too high. Before resorting to treatment, you should therefore first check the location conditions.
Treat powdery mildew
Fortunately, powdery mildew can be combated in the early stages with homemade home remedies. Under no circumstances should you use chemical agents, even if they usually have an immediate effect. Experience has shown that home remedies require several applications, but you do not harm your plants in this way.
Manual removal
If you wipe the leaves with your finger, the covering can be removed. Lightly showering the plant can help with a low level of infestation.
Self-made pesticides
Mix either milk or baking soda with water and fill the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the affected houseplant several times a week with the liquid.
Tips
Unfortunately, milk and baking soda only work against powdery mildew. To combat downy mildew, brew garlic or Field horsetail in water and apply the remedy in the same way.
Beneficial insects
The use of beneficial insects is also possible in the apartment, as long as the living conditions are adapted to the species. The two-point ladybug feeds on the fungus. You can get its larvae in specialist shops.
Tips
Depending on the severity of the infestation, you should cut back or even make a radical cut. Dispose of the affected plant parts in a well-sealed garbage bag, but never on the compost.