Does powdery mildew spread to other plants?

Yes, the spores can easily travel to nearby plants, so it is best to treat it as soon as you spot it.

Should I remove the spotted leaves?

If only a few leaves are affected, you can remove them to reduce the spread of spores.

Abelia: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the white spots can be wiped off with your finger.
Observe if the plant is in a very humid or stagnant area.
Look for signs of overcrowding around the base of the plant.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: A white, powdery substance appears on the surface of the leaves, often looking like someone dusted them with flour.
What to do: Improve air circulation by thinning out crowded branches. Apply a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew or a mixture of 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water to the leaves.
Poor Airflow
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear primarily on leaves in the center of the plant where air does not move freely.
What to do: Prune away some of the inner branches to allow air to reach the center of the shrub. Ensure the plant is not crowded by other nearby plants.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your abelia

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Powdery mildew is rarely fatal, but it can make the plant look unsightly and weaken it if left untreated for a long time.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry, and ensure the shrub has plenty of space for air to circulate.

Abelia: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your abelia and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Does powdery mildew spread to other plants?: Yes, the spores can easily travel to nearby plants, so it is best to treat it as soon as you spot it.
Should I remove the spotted leaves?: If only a few leaves are affected, you can remove them to reduce the spread of spores.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

What are these white spots on my Abelia leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your abelia?