Powdery mildew

Powdery Mildew is a common plant disease caused by many different species of fungi in the order Erysiphales. It is characterized by spots or patches of white to grayish, talcum-powder-like growth.

Overview

Powdery mildew is one of the easier plant diseases to identify, as its symptoms are quite distinctive. Infected plants display white powdery spots on the leaves and stems. The lower leaves are the most affected, but the mildew can appear on any above-ground part of the plant. As the disease progresses, the spots get larger and denser as large numbers of asexual spores are formed, and the mildew may spread up and down the length of the plant.

Causes

Powdery mildew diseases are caused by many different species of fungi in the order Erysiphales. It is believed that there are at least 4,000 different species of this fungus, many of which have a very narrow host range. The disease is most commonly observed on the foliage and stems, but can also affect flowers and fruits of plants.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of powdery mildew is crucial in maintaining the health of plants. This can be achieved through a combination of cultural practices, use of resistant varieties, and application of fungicides. Cultural practices include proper spacing of plants for optimal air circulation, regular inspection for early detection of the disease, and removal and destruction of infected plant parts.

Impact

Powdery mildew can have a significant impact on the yield and quality of many crops. It can reduce the photosynthetic area of leaves, cause premature leaf drop, and reduce plant vigor. In severe cases, it can lead to plant death.

See Also

• Plant Pathology
• Fungi
• Erysiphales