Is powdery mildew contagious to other plants?

Yes, it spreads via spores on the wind, so isolate or treat infected plants quickly.

Should I pull the plant out?

Only if the infection is severe and covering the entire plant, as it will likely not recover well.

Love in a Mist: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the white spots can be wiped off with your finger.
Look at the density of your planting to see if air can move freely.
Observe if the plant stays wet for long periods after watering.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a dusty, white coating on the leaves and stems that looks like flour.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infected leaves to stop the spread. Spray the remaining foliage with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water.
Poor air circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plant is crowded by other flowers, preventing the foliage from drying out after rain or dew.
What to do: Thin out nearby plants to allow more air to move through the garden bed. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves as dry as possible.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your love in a mist

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

Treat this as soon as you see it, as it spreads quickly and can stunt the plant's growth.

Stopping it coming back

Space your plants properly when sowing seeds and water only at the base of the plant.

Love in a Mist: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your love in a mist 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, it spreads via spores on the wind, so isolate or treat infected plants quickly.
Should I pull the plant out?: Only if the infection is severe and covering the entire plant, as it will likely not recover well.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why are there white spots on my Love-in-a-mist?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your love in a mist?