Succulent plants store moisture in their fleshy leaves. In order for the plants to develop he althy and strong, a lot of sensitivity when watering is necessary. Care errors in particular can lead to diseases such as powdery mildew in these robust succulents.
How do I recognize powdery mildew on succulents?
Succulents usually suffer from powdery mildew, which is manifested by awhite, mealy coating on the tops of the leaves. Some of these plants are naturally covered with a whitish waxy coating. This so-called farina differs from mildew in its even distribution.
What happens when succulents are affected by powdery mildew?
Succulents suffer greatly from powdery mildew because the fungus deprives the leaves ofnutrients and moisture This causes the leaves to dry out and turn yellow-brown. Photosynthesis can no longer take place in these leaves. This weakens the entire plant. If there is a severe infestation of young succulents, the fungus can also cause the plant to die.
How can I control mildew on succulents?
A provenhome remedy for mildew is milk, which can also be used on succulents. To do this, use whole milk or buttermilk with a high lactic acid content. Gently spray a mixture of one part milk and 9 parts water onto the affected plants using a sprayer. You should be careful with the treatment in order to preserve the waxy farina as much as possible. Before starting treatment, remove the affected parts of the plant.
How do I prevent powdery mildew on succulents?
A particularly effective way to prevent powdery mildew on succulents isWatering with field horsetail This plant contains a lot of silica and thereby strengthens the cell walls of the succulents against pathogens. Make sure you care for your plants properly. If the succulents are watered correctly in full sun, you will enjoy he althy plants that are less susceptible to disease. Make sure that there is no water on the leaves, otherwise they will become soft.
Tip
Insects to help against mildew
Succulents can be very sensitive to spray solutions on the leaves. A good option for these plants in the greenhouse is to use insects to control mildew. The mushroom ladybird (Halyzia sedecimguttata) lives up to its name and eats the mycelia with relish. This also applies to the six-spotted ladybird and the squirrel fly (Myathropa florea).
