Powdery Mildew: On The Rise In East Texas

 

 

Warm, humid days followed by cool nights have created the perfect storm for powdery mildew, a fungal disease now showing up across East Texas landscapes and gardens. This weather pattern traps moisture around plant surfaces overnight, giving the fungus exactly what it needs to thrive.
 
 

How to Spot It

 

Powdery mildew is easy to identify once you know the signs. Look for:
 

• White or gray, powder like coating on leaves, stems, or buds
 

• Distorted or curling leaves as the infection progresses
 

• Yellowing foliage or premature leaf drop in severe cases
 

It often starts on the lower leaves and moves upward, especially in dense, shaded, or poorly ventilated areas.
 
 

How to Treat It

 

If you catch it early, powdery mildew is very manageable. The most effective approach is a fungicide spray labeled for powdery mildew control. Look for active ingredients such as myclobutanil, propiconazole, chlorothalonil, sulfur, or potassium bicarbonate.
 
 

Follow these tips for best results:

 

• Apply in the early morning for good coverage and quick drying
 

• Coat both upper and lower leaf surfaces
 

• Repeat treatments every 7–14 days, depending on the product label
 

• Remove heavily infected leaves to slow spread
 

Improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering will also help keep the disease from returning.