Mildew is a common plant disease in the UK, especially in damp, mild weather. There are two main types you’ll see in gardens and containers:
Powdery Mildew
- Looks like a white or grey powder on leaves
- Common in dry soil but humid air
- Often affects roses, courgettes, peas, and bedding plants
What helps:
Water plants regularly, avoid overcrowding, and improve air flow. Remove badly affected leaves.
Downy Mildew
- Causes yellow patches on leaves with grey or purple mould underneath
- Thrives in cool, wet conditions
- Common on wallflowers, pansies, lettuce, and basil
What helps:
Good spacing, watering at soil level (not leaves), and removing infected plants quickly.
Top Tips
- Mildews love poor air circulation
- Crowded pots are more at risk
- Healthy, well-watered plants cope much better
- Prevention is easier than cure
Mildew looks worrying, but with good care and quick action, most plants will recover and keep growing well.
