Many people have noticed white spots on their basil leaves, and they’re not sure what it means. In this blog post, we will go over the possible causes for these white spots and how to get rid of them!
Why are there white spots on my basil leaves?
The main reason for white spots on basil leaves is powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that thrives in warm, moist conditions. This fungus causes white spots to form on the leaves and stems of basil plants.
Unfortunately, powdery mildew can spread very quickly because it releases spores that are carried by the wind and attach themselves to new plants.
How to fix powdery mildew on my basil leaves?
The best thing you can do for your plant if it has powdery mildew is cut off the infected parts of the plant, leaving about six inches or so intact. Most people spray a mixture of water, hydrogen peroxide and liquid dish soap on the plant – this will prevent any spores from growing back.
I believe you should try to avoid using harsh chemicals that can kill off the good plant microorganisms that are present, which is why I recommend using an organic fungicide spray to get rid of powdery mildew! The best time to apply it is in early morning or evening when temperatures are cool.
How to prevent a powdery mildew on my basil plants?
The best way to prevent this fungus from infecting your basil plant is by making sure that humidity levels are low, air circulation is good and your plant doesn’t receive direct sunlight. You can also help reduce the chances of powdery mildew by using reflective mulches, which will reduce the humidity around your plant.
Other causes of pale basil leaves
The white spots might be a sign of something else. Some possibilities include:
Sunscald
This is a result of direct exposure to sun for too long that causes tissue damage and loss of chlorophyll in the leaves. This can also happen from frost that damages cells below ground level.
Insects
Insects that feed on leaves include aphids, thrips, leafhoppers, spider mites, and mealybugs which can be present in the soil and will cause white spots on leaves that look like they’re covered with flour or corn meal. They can be controlled by spraying with neem oil or insecticidal soap (not dish soap).
Botrytis aka gray mold
This is a moisture-loving fungus that causes decay and rots on stems, flowers, and fruit. It thrives in cool, humid conditions and spreads easily.
The best thing you can do is if your plant is cut off the affected parts. You should also prune dead or dying leaves at any time during the growing season. If it’s not too late
Frequently asked questions
Growing basil plants can be more challenging than other herbs. As such, there are a few questions that I get asked frequently, and we’ll go over them here:
Can I use milk to get rid of powdery mildew on my basil leaves?
Milk can be used as a natural remedy for fungus, so you could try washing your plant with it! The idea is to create an environment where bacteria and other beneficial microorganisms thrive while making it difficult for the fungus to survive.
Can I use baking soda on my basil leaves?
Baking soda is another popular home remedy for fungi! It releases carbon dioxide which can kill the powdery mildew spores, so it’s definitely worth a try!
How to water a basil plant to avoid powdery mildew?
The best time for watering your plant is early morning or late evening so that leaves can dry off before it becomes humid! You want to avoid wetting them as much as possible. If you have a drip irrigation system, try redirecting the flow of water away from the plant’s leaves and stems.
Will neem oil fix powdery mildew on my basil leaves?
Yes, neem oil is an organic pesticide that will not only kill powdery mildew but other kinds of common insects like spider mites. It’s best to apply it in the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cool so it doesn’t burn off too quickly!
Conclusion
In conclusion, powdery mildew can be a problem for basil plants – but it’s not necessarily the end of the world! The fungus isn’t usually deadly, so as long as you’re willing to take care of your plant, then they’ll probably bounce back.
I hope you have enjoyed this article and are now equipped with all the knowledge required to save your beloved basil plants, if you have any questions please feel free to leave a comment below!
