Powdery Looking Stuff On My Columbines - Knowledgebase Question

Fairfax, CA
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Question by lorettaannja
July 31, 2000
I have what I think is powdery mildew on most of my columbines. I have them in differrent locations around the garden, and this has been a lousy summer for them all around. (In terms of little or no blooms). I have several new varieties, blue's etc. But mostly, I think, McKenna's. They are in dappled shade most of the time, some have more sun than others. But all have this powdery stuff on them. Is this fatal? Could it be caused by oak leaf mulch? Should I just give up? They are so glorius when they do bloom, I'd hate to do that. But something has gone wrong. They do get overhead watering. Is that the problem? Also, what could cause sudden death of Gerbera? They are in the same location, they bloom one or 2 beautiful flowers, then die.
Thanks for any suggestions.


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Answer from NGA
July 31, 2000
If the powdery coating is white, it is most likely powdery mildew, a fungal disease. Powdery mildew fungi spread quickest when the humidity is high and temperatures are between 50F and 90F. To discourage the disease, plant on sites with good air drainage, give the plants plenty of space, water during the morning only, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Remove any affected leaves, and if your plant is heavily covered with powdery mildew you should probably remove the entire plant so the infection doesn't spread. For heavy infestations of powdery mildew, sulfur or copper sprays can be applied weekly, starting in July in your area. To obtain these treatments, check your local garden center, and follow the directions carefully.

Gerbera daisies are fussy about watering. They need a thorough soaking and then the soil should dry out before they're watered again. Try not to splash water on the crown of the plant. Gerbera daisies like the nightime temperature to be about 60F degrees, and the daytime temperature about 75F, so move yours if it's too warm where you have it. The plant will take full morning sunshine, but appreciates some afternoon shade. If the flowers continue to droop, or when they begin to shrivel, cut them off and allow the plant to produce new flowers.

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