powdery mildew
Tomato plants are very popular among gardeners around the world, but they are also susceptible to various diseases. One of the most common and annoying is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungi of the genus Oidium. This disease can severely affect the growth and yield of plants if not detected and treated in time.


Causes of Powdery Mildew in Tomato Plants
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect tomato plants. Here are the most common causes:
High humidity
The fungus thrives particularly well in high humidity, which promotes the spread of spores.Warm weather
Warm temperatures, especially with high humidity, create ideal conditions for the fungus.Poor air circulation
The fungus can spread quickly in closely spaced plants or poorly ventilated greenhouses.Infected plant remains
Fungal spores can overwinter on infected plant remains and become active again the following year.overhead irrigation
If the leaves get wet during watering, this promotes the spread of mildew.
Measures to Control Powdery Mildew in Tomatoes
To combat powdery mildew, the following measures can be taken:
reduce humidity
Improve air circulation around plants to reduce humidity. This can be achieved by thinning plants or opening greenhouse windows.adjust water supply
Water the plants directly at the ground, making sure the leaves stay dry. Watering in the morning is ideal, as this allows the leaves to dry out during the day.Apply milk-water spray
A mixture of one part milk and nine parts water can be sprayed on the affected plants. The lactic acid bacteria help to fight the fungus.Pay attention to floor hygiene
Infected plant remains should be removed and disposed of to prevent transmission to the next growing season.monitor temperatures
In greenhouses, maintain adequate temperature control to minimize conditions for fungal growth.Regular check-ups
Check plants regularly for signs of mildew so that early action can be taken.
These measures help reduce or prevent powdery mildew on tomato plants and keep the plants healthy.