Hops have established themselves as an ornamental plant in our gardens in recent years. One of the typical diseases of hops is powdery mildew. This applies to commercial cultivation and ornamental varieties in the garden. We'll tell you how to deal with it correctly.
How do I recognize powdery mildew on hops?
You can recognize powdery mildew on hops by awhite, powdery coating on the leaves. Powdery mildew usually occurs on hops. You can recognize the rare occurrence of downy mildew by curled leaves with yellow-brownish spots and by a fungal lawn.
How do I combat powdery mildew on hops?
Immediate action in the event of powdery mildew on your hops isRemoving the affected leaves Fungicides against the fungus are often used in the commercial cultivation of hops. In your own garden you should use home remedies such as milk. Spray the leaves with whole or buttermilk. Alternatively, you can also put a mixture of baking soda, water and rapeseed oil on the leaves. Repeat this measure at least weekly and after every rain.
Are there mildew-resistant hop varieties for the garden?
Thevarieties Hallertauer hops Merkur and Herkules are mildew resistant. Merkur hops are suitable both as an ornamental plant in the garden and for commercial cultivation. It was the first newly developed variety that is not affected by powdery mildew. The resistance to mildew is due to a high alpha acid content. As a climbing plant, this hop reaches approximately 6 meters. The fruits of this hop variety develop late. However, due to its resistance to mildew, you can enjoy it for a long time.
Tip
Mildew overwinters
If your hops are affected by mildew, cut them back to 50 cm in autumn. Dispose of all cut parts and fallen leaves in the trash. Powdery mildew overwinters on dead plant parts, in the soil and on buds.
