Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that is prevalent in Georgia, caused by various fungal species. It appears as a powdery white or grayish coating on the leaves, stems, and even flowers of plants. This disease weakens plants by hindering photosynthesis, stunting growth, and causing premature leaf drop. If your plants are dealing with this disease, you should schedule curative treatments from lawn care professionals ASAP! These professionals should be able to administer a treatment that will eliminate this disease so your plants can start recovering.

What is powdery mildew and what causes it?

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables. It appears as a powdery white or gray substance on the surface of leaves, stems, and sometimes even flowers. The fungus spreads through airborne spores, which can travel from infected plants to healthy ones, especially during periods of high humidity and warm temperatures. Unlike some other fungal diseases, powdery mildew does not require waterlogged conditions to develop; it can occur even when the surrounding soil is relatively dry.

Several factors contribute to the development of powdery mildew. Overcrowded plantings, poor air circulation, and lack of sunlight can create conditions favorable for the disease to take hold. Additionally, stressed or weakened plants, as well as those with nutrient deficiencies, are more susceptible to powdery mildew infections.

Robert Efford at TurfXpert

The fungus responsible for powdery mildew belongs to the Erysiphales family and thrives in warm and dry conditions.

What kind of damage does powdery mildew cause?

Powdery mildew can cause various problems for infected plants. The visible white or gray powder-like growth on leaves and stems may lead to unsightly aesthetics, detracting from the overall beauty of ornamental plants and flowering species. In severe cases, the fungus can cover large portions of the plant, resulting in leaf yellowing, browning, and premature leaf drop.

The growth of powdery mildew on the leaf surface can also reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize efficiently. This hampers the plant's ability to produce the necessary energy for growth. As a result, infected plants may exhibit stunted growth and reduced flowering or fruiting.

Additionally, powdery mildew weakens the affected plant's defenses, making it more susceptible to other pathogens and environmental stresses. Continued infections can lead to a decline in the plant's health and vitality over time, making it crucial to address the issue promptly.

Treat powdery mildew with professional tree and shrub disease control treatments.

When dealing with powdery mildew, it is best to seek professional tree and shrub disease control treatments. Professionals have the knowledge and experience to accurately identify powdery mildew and determine the best course of action for treatment.

One common approach to manage powdery mildew is through the use of fungicides specifically formulated to target this disease. Professional tree care experts can apply the appropriate fungicides in a safe and effective manner, ensuring that the treatment reaches the affected areas and provides the best chance of controlling the infection.

Moreover, professionals can assess the overall health of the plants and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the disease. They can recommend proper pruning techniques to improve air circulation and reduce overcrowding, as well as provide guidance on maintaining optimal soil conditions and adequate nutrient levels.

Reach out to us today to sign up for our tree and shrub disease control program.

At TurfXpert, we can help make powdery mildew a problem of the past via our tree and shrub disease control treatments. When you sign up for our tree and shrub disease control program, we will visit your property multiple times throughout the year to apply our treatments to your plants to protect them from a variety of diseases, including powdery mildew. This program also includes fertilization treatments to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. We offer this service to property owners in Woodstock, GA, and surrounding areas like Roswell and Alpharetta. Give us a call today at (833) 444-8873 to sign up for this program today!