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Downy mildew is a fungal disease caused by species belonging to the family Peronosporaceae. It is a frequently observed plant disease in the varieties of Cucurbits, crucifers and several creepers. Well known types of mildew namely Hop Downy mildew and Cucurbits Downy mildew are caused by Pseudoperonospora humuli and Pseudoperonospora cubensis as well. This critical ailment has ensured severe foliage damage in parts of United States since the growth of fungus is supported by the humid climate that prevails in the province. The transfer of fungus over the plants is by rain, wind and other environmental factors.
Climatic condition varying from cold to humid or even hot climate, favors the survival of the fungus which is distinct from the case of Powdery Mildew. At the end of spring the plantings are susceptible to acquire the disease much more than during other seasons. The disease spreads rapidly throughout the plant if the condition is not identified and taken necessary measures.
The damage caused includes inward curling of leaves, initial occurrence of light green patches that develops into yellow followed by defoliation, diminutive growth of the plant, reduced fruit bearing efficiency of the plant and even leads to plant loss. Management of Downy mildew is challenging and the effective method depends on use of organic fungicides.
Natural fungicide Neem oil certified by EPA and OMRI can be used in the farms not only to cure the disease but to control and manage the factors causing the disease. The dews left over the plant leaves by mealy bugs, beetles, Whiteflies and several other insects are likely to initiate the fungal mildew. Therefore, Neem oil plays the role of pesticides controlling such insect varieties preventing the formation of dews and occurrence of downy mildew as well. After the application of Neem oil, the further spreading of fungus is inhibited thereby helping the neighboring plants from the attack.
It is also seen that conventional methods of controlling insects in farms like crop rotation and proper sanitation has the least effect in the management of this disease because it spreads easily even in low current winds. Thus use of Neem can be an effective solution to manage downy mildew.
Author: Adam Teaser - neem
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