Is powdery mildew contagious to other plants?

Yes, the spores can easily travel on the wind to other susceptible plants in your garden. Keep an eye on nearby greens and herbs.

Should I throw away the whole plant?

Not unless it is completely overwhelmed. Most of the time, you can manage it by removing affected leaves and improving airflow.

Chicory: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the white spots rub off easily with your finger.
Look at the spacing between your plants.
Observe if the leaves are staying wet for long periods after watering.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, flour like coating on the surface of the leaves. It starts in small patches and can eventually cover the entire leaf.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infected leaves to stop the spread. Spray the remaining foliage with a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water.
Poor air circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plants are crowded together, preventing air from moving between the leaves. This creates a damp environment where fungus thrives.
What to do: Thin out your plants to ensure they have at least 12 to 18 inches of space. Prune back any surrounding foliage that might be blocking the breeze.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chicory

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

If the mildew covers most of the plant, it will struggle to photosynthesize and may stop growing. Treat it as soon as you spot the first white patch.

Stopping it coming back

Always water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry. Ensure your chicory is in a spot with full, direct sun.

Chicory: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chicory 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

Is powdery mildew contagious to other plants?: Yes, the spores can easily travel on the wind to other susceptible plants in your garden. Keep an eye on nearby greens and herbs.
Should I throw away the whole plant?: Not unless it is completely overwhelmed. Most of the time, you can manage it by removing affected leaves and improving airflow.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

What are these white spots on my chicory leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your chicory?