Plant Pests & Diseases
Powdery Mildew on Houseplants

What It Looks Like
A white, floury coating on leaves and stems -- not dirt, but a fungal growth. It thrives in still, humid air with cool nights.
The Fix
- Improve airflow (a fan or open window).
- Wipe leaves with a 1:9 milk-water mix or a baking-soda spray.
- Remove the worst-hit foliage.
- Avoid overhead watering that keeps leaves wet.
Preventing It
Space plants for air, keep humidity moving, and do not crowd them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it contagious?
A:
Yes, spores spread to neighbours; isolate the worst.
Q: Will it kill the plant?
A:
Rarely, but it weakens growth and looks bad.
Q: Can I use the same spray as for pests?
A:
Neem helps; the milk/baking-soda mix targets fungus specifically.
Airflow is the cure and the prevention. Pair good habits with the pest identifier.



Comments
Share your experience or ask a question. Comments are stored locally in your browser for this demo.