Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, both indoors and outdoors. It is caused by several different species of fungi, but they all share the same characteristic symptom: a white, powdery growth on the surface of leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. Leaves are the most common site of infection. Powdery mildew typically starts as small, white patches on the upper surface of leaves, often near the veins. As the disease progresses, the patches enlarge and merge, covering the entire leaf surface with a white, powdery growth. Infected leaves may become yellowed, stunted, and distorted, and eventually drop prematurely.
- Type of Infestation: Fungal Disease
- Common Name: Powdery Mildew
- Causal Organism: Erysiphe polygoni
- Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves and Stem
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
- Cool, humid weather: Powdery mildew fungi thrive in cool temperatures (between 60°F and 80°F) and high humidity (above 60%). This is because these conditions prevent the spores from drying out and allow them to germinate and infect the plant.
- Poor air circulation: Still air allows moisture to build up around the leaves, creating a favorable environment for the fungus to grow.
- Crowded plantings: Plants that are too close together are more likely to develop powdery mildew because the leaves are not able to dry out quickly after rain or watering.
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
- The most obvious symptom is the white, powdery growth on the surface of plant parts.
- Leaves may also become yellow, stunted, and distorted.
- In severe cases, leaves may drop prematurely.
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
| Products | Technical Names | Dosages |
| hexa 5 plus | Hexaconazole 5 % SC | 200-250 ml per acre |
| azozole | Azoxystrobin 18.2 % + difenoconazole 11.4 % SC | 150-200 ml per Acre |
| samartha | Carbendazim 12 % + Mancozeb 63 % WP | 300-400 grams per acre |
