Powdery Mildew in Flower Garden

Last summer many of my plants and shrubs were attacked by powdery mildew. We have pets and do not want to use chemicals.

In general plants grown in full sun with good air circulation (properly spaced and thinned) have fewer mildew problems. Drought stressed and overfertilized plants are more likely to develop the problem. Excess fertilization produces an abundance of lush succulent growth that is more susceptible to this disease. Susceptible plants such as zinnia, garden phlox and lilacs can get mildew even in good growing conditions. Plant mildew resistant varieties whenever possible. Remove infested foliage during your fall cleanup to reduce the amount of overwintering fungus. Neem and some other eco-friendly fungicides can help reduce powdery mildew. Just be aware you will need to make regular applications at the first sign of the disease and throughout the remainder of the growing season.