In 2019, I discovered and fell in love with the delicate and lightly fragrant phlox paniculata ‘Jeana’. On this date 8/8/18, plants are mostly mildew free with a few clumps of bee balm that were treated as soon as white spots were observed Later than normal bloom time for both phlox paniculata and monarda (bee balm) have been observedĪfter an early June treatment, some Monarda foliage developed crispy brown edges, but it was minimal and soon disappeared beneath dense new growth This summer's schizophrenic weather patterns of alternating humidity, heat, and drought followed by daily rain have been favorable for the development and spread of powdery mildew as outlined here Surrounding plants were thinned, but photos below betray my obsession with tight inter-planting Treatments with Agri-Foss and Serenade were alternated every 7-10 days as referenced above, beginning on April 30th and continuing through early August (with a couple skips!) Proper cultivation practices will also minimize the need for fungicide use. I will also do a better job of thinning out the phlox and the astilbe in the same bed to improve air circulation which should help minimize the risk of infection. I've learned that plants release most of their pollen in the morning, so timing of fungicide application either very early in the morning, or later in the afternoon helps to reduce any potential exposure for pollinators. I've researched each of these products and they show no risk to pollinators* or wild birds, which is very important. First step is an application of Agri-Fos (active ingredient phosphorus acid), alternating every 7-10 days with Serenade® (active ingredient bacillus subtilis). This year, I an committed to early prevention. I've learned from experience, that it's important NOT to wait until you see the white powdery spots on leaves to attempt treatment. By then it will be too late.Īt the advice of the great folks at Nashua Farmers' Exchange, I've formulated a plan of action to prevent powdery mildew and ensure healthy plants throughout the summer and fall. I'm also guilty of planting very densely, which can inhibit air circulation in the garden beds and increase the risk of disease. Admittedly, I'm usually too late in recognizing the problem and in a state of denial when the little white dots start to appear on lower foliage. In moments of desperation, I have even ripped out old plant varieties and replaced them with newer, resistant varieties. Over the years, I have tried a half dozen home made and commercial remedies with limited effectiveness. Even the so-called "mildew resistant" varieties can be a huge source of angst for the OCD gardener, like myself. While mildew is generally not fatal to the plant, it definitely detracts from the beauty of the blooms. Penn State Extension has a helpful article here on the subject and explains the conditions that favor the development and spread of powdery mildew. Tall phlox and monarda (bee balm) are particularly susceptible to this fungal infection, resulting in unsightly spotting and disfigurement of foliage. July 4th, everything is going along just fine, then BAM - July 6th the white spots appear, like a pox on the beautiful foliage. Powdery mildew sure knows how to spoil a great garden party. Note: This post was updated with results shown below on August 8, 2018.
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