Powdery Mildew on Whitethorn

Look out for powdery mildew on whitethorn hedges. The white powdery coating on the leaves is a disease but plants will out-grow this. Farmers appear to be more aware of diseases on newly planted hedges because of the fireblight scare and are relieved when powdery mildew is diagnosed. It may be more prevalent on topped hedges protected with compostable film, or hedges in drier conditions, as powdery mildew does not like wet conditions. There is no need to worry or do anything. Learn more at Hedgerow Week events on Teagasc farms in Ballyhaise, Athenry, Clonakilty, Curtins Moorepark and Kildalton at 11am on 2 – 6 September respectively – promoting native Irish biodiversity.

Powdery mildew on recently planted whitethorn hedge