Treating puberulent mildew on squash can be a challenge , but with the correct approach , you may effectively manage the outbreak . I have dealt with this issue in my own garden , and I read the thwarting it can cause . Here are some steps you may take to combat downy mildew on your squash rackets plant :
1 . cut short off and compost affected leaves : The first step is to remove any folio that show signs of downy mildew . This includes leave that have yellow spots on the upper surface and a fuzzy , grayish growth on the underside . Use clean and sharp pruning shears to clip off the affected leaves , making sure to chuck out of them in a compost megabucks or bag them for disposal . This will facilitate prevent the facing pages of the disease .
2 . Spray works with baking tonic solution : bake soda is a innate fungicide that can help control downy mold . coalesce 1 teaspoon of baking soda with one quart of water in a spray nursing bottle . Shake well to assure the baking soda is full dissolved . Then , spray the root onto the remain healthy leaf of the squash rackets works , making sure to cover both the upper and low surfaces . Repeat this spray discourse every 7 - 10 day or after rainwater issue to keep the disease in check mark .
3 . Provide proper ventilation and space : Good air flow is essential in preventing the development and feast of flossy mold . ensure your squash vine plants are not overcrowded and have enough space between them to allow gentle wind circulation . This will avail reduce the humidness around the industrial plant and create an environment less favorable for the disease to thrive . If you are growing squash vine in a glasshouse or high tunnel , consider using fan to improve air motion .
4 . Water the plants carefully : flossy mold thrives in dampish conditions , so it ’s crucial to water your squash plant cautiously . Avoid overhead lachrymation , as this can create a humid environment that promotes the disease . Instead , water at the base of the industrial plant using a dribble irrigation system or a soaker hosiery . This will keep the foliage teetotal and minimize the danger of infection .
5 . Monitor the weather conditions : Cucurbit downy mould be given to thrive in nerveless , wet atmospheric condition . Keep an eye on the weather condition forecast and be prepared to take action if conditions are favorable for the disease . If you observe prolonged periods of pelting or high-pitched humidity , consider apply preventative treatments , such as the baking soda solution , to protect your squash plants .
6 . recitation harvest rotation : To prevent the return of downy mildew in future growing season , it ’s important to exercise crop rotation . avert planting squash or related crops in the same location for at least two age . This will help break the disease cycle and subjugate the risk of reinfection .
call back , downy mildew may prevail even with these direction scheme , specially if the conditions remains cool and wet . However , as the atmospheric condition becomes warm and ironical , the disease normally tend to disappear on its own . By espouse these steps and staying vigilant , you may efficaciously address downy mildew on mash and minimize its impingement on your plants .
Caroline Bates
