Is powdery mildew fatal?

It is rarely fatal if caught early, but it can weaken the plant and make it look unsightly.

Should I use a fungicide?

Usually, you do not need harsh chemicals. Improving airflow and keeping leaves dry is often enough.

Dovefoot cranesbill: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for a white powdery coating on the leaves.
Check if the plant is crowded by other plants.
Feel if the leaves stay wet for too long after watering.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: White, powdery spots appear on the surface of the leaves during humid weather.
What to do: Improve air circulation around the plant by spacing it away from others. You can wipe leaves with a mixture of water and a tiny drop of dish soap.
Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: Dark brown or black spots with yellow halos appear on the foliage.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your dovefoot cranesbill

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

Small spots are manageable, but if they cover more than half the leaf surface, the plant will struggle to photosynthesize.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant instead of over the leaves, and ensure the plant has plenty of space for air to move.

Dovefoot cranesbill: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your dovefoot cranesbill 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 fatal?: It is rarely fatal if caught early, but it can weaken the plant and make it look unsightly.
Should I use a fungicide?: Usually, you do not need harsh chemicals. Improving airflow and keeping leaves dry is often enough.

Why are there spots on my Dovefoot cranesbill leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your dovefoot cranesbill?

Likely causes

Powdery mildew

Fungal leaf spot

Find out what's wrong with your dovefoot cranesbill

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Dovefoot cranesbill: spots? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Dovefoot cranesbill