In Germany there are two native species of hawthorn (Crataegus). The trees are very valuable for our insect world. Hawthorn belongs to the rose family and can therefore also be affected by similar diseases such as mildew.
What does mildew look like on hawthorn?
Powdery mildew on hawthorn is manifested by awhite, mealy coating on the top and bottom of the leaf. This can be easily wiped off by hand. As the disease progresses, the leaves turn brownish and look dried out.
How does powdery mildew develop on hawthorn?
Powdery mildew on hawthorn isa fungal disease in which the spores are spread by the wind. In warm, dry weather, the fungal spores form a mycelium on the leaves. The formation of powdery mildew is also encouraged by dew in the early morning hours. Through sucking organs it removes nutrients and moisture from the plants, causing the leaves to die. The fruits of the hawthorn also wither.
How can I treat powdery mildew on hawthorn?
For strong hawthorn bushes,no direct treatment is usually necessary However, you should treat young plants against the fungus. For smaller young plants, home remedies such as milk and baking powder are suitable as sprays against mildew. Regular treatment with these substances can curb the fungal disease. To prevent the mildew from spreading, you should regularly remove fallen leaves. If older plants are severely affected by powdery mildew, curb the disease by vigorously pruning the affected parts of the plant.
How do I prevent powdery mildew on hawthorn?
The most important prerequisites against mildew arehe althy and resilient plants You should pay attention to the right location when planting the hawthorn bushes. From late summer onwards, powdery mildew on hawthorn 0.1-0.2 mm increasingly forms spherical fruiting bodies on the underside of the leaves. By winter they ripen and turn from yellowish to black. To prevent infection the following year, you should remove all fallen hawthorn leaves.
Tip
Pay attention to other plants
Two different mildew fungi can cause the disease in the hawthorn bush. These two fungi can also affect various other plants in your garden. These include hawthorn, red beech, birch and hazelnut. If you discover powdery mildew on your hawthorn, you should also check the other trees regularly.
