DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS
This fungus attacks a wide variety of plants, and is particularly troublesome on roses. It appears as a white powdery film on leaves and shoots. Powdery mildew can cause reduced plant vigour, distorted growth and chlorosis. If left unchecked powdery mildew can cripple a plant. Environmental conditions can cause mildew diseases. They are favoured by dry weather with warm days and cool nights. Cultural practices such as trimming and fertilizing which stimulate and prolong succulent plant growth will encourage many powdery mildew strains.

PREVENTION
• There are many plant varieties which are more resistant to powdery mildew.
• Try to ensure good air circulation around plants.
• Trim off affected growth as it occurs.
CONTROL

Spray with one of the many fungicides available for use against powdery mildew-
• Sulfur
• Funginex (for roses)
• Benomyl
• Folpet
• Fungicides must be applied before the fungus becomes established to be most effective.

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