Is downy mildew contagious to other plants?

Yes, the spores can easily spread to nearby plants through the air or water splashes. Keep infected plants isolated.

Should I throw the whole plant away?

Not necessarily, but if the infection is severe and covers most of the foliage, it is often best to remove the plant to protect your garden.

Why does my Common stock have yellow spots? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Flip the leaves over to look for fuzzy gray growth.
Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Ensure the plant is not sitting in standing water.

Likely causes

Downy mildew
Most likely
How to tell: Yellow patches appear on the top of the leaves, while a gray or white fuzzy growth develops underneath. This thrives in cool, damp conditions.
What to do: Remove and destroy any infected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid getting water on the foliage when you irrigate.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves may develop yellow spots or patches as the roots struggle in soggy soil. The soil will feel wet even days after watering.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has good drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common stock

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 spots are spreading rapidly across the whole plant, it is likely a fungal infection that requires immediate removal of affected parts.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant to keep leaves dry and ensure your stock has plenty of space for air to circulate.

Common stock: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common stock 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 downy mildew contagious to other plants?: Yes, the spores can easily spread to nearby plants through the air or water splashes. Keep infected plants isolated.
Should I throw the whole plant away?: Not necessarily, but if the infection is severe and covers most of the foliage, it is often best to remove the plant to protect your garden.

Guides to these causes

Downy Mildew

Why does my Common stock have yellow spots?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your common stock?