If the magnificent leaves of a clematis are covered with mealy-white spots, the fungal infection powdery mildew has struck. Since resorting to chemicals is frowned upon in nature-loving hobby gardens, a tried and tested home remedy is now being used. Find out what that is here.
How to fight powdery mildew on clematis?
Mildew on clematis can be effectively controlled with a mixture of 900 ml of water, 100 ml of fresh milk and a splash of dishwashing liquid. Spray this solution on the bottom and top of the leaves every 3 days to ward off the fungal infection.
Fighting mildew with milk – this is how it works
Fresh milk contains useful microorganisms that kill fungal spores. In addition, the lecithin it contains counteracts the disease, while sodium phosphate strengthens the defenses of a clematis. How to use the home remedy correctly:
- Mix 900 ml of water with 100 ml of fresh milk
- Add a splash of detergent for better adhesion to the leaves
- Apply the product to the bottom and top of the leaves every 3 days
So that the pretty foliage of the clematis is not marred with limescale, we recommend using collected rainwater or decalcified tap water. Incidentally, UHT milk is unsuitable as a remedy against powdery mildew on clematis, as there are hardly any microorganisms left in it.
