Is powdery mildew contagious?

Yes, the spores can easily travel through the air to nearby plants. Isolate your Redshank until the spots are gone.

Should I throw the plant away?

No, you do not need to discard it. With proper pruning and treatment, your Redshank will recover just fine.

Redshank: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Rub the white spots with your finger to see if they wipe off like dust.
Check if the plant is crowded by other plants.
Ensure the leaves are not staying wet for long periods.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, floury coating on the surface of the leaves. It usually starts on older leaves and spreads upward.
What to do: Prune away the most heavily infected leaves to improve airflow. Apply a fungicide or a mixture of one part milk to nine parts water to the leaves.
Water splashes
Possible
How to tell: Small, irregular white or brown spots appear after watering. These are usually mineral deposits or soil splashes.
What to do: Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove the residue.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your redshank

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 white spots cover the entire plant and the leaves begin to turn yellow and drop, the infection is severe. Catching it early prevents it from spreading to your other plants.

Stopping it coming back

Space your plants out to allow for good air movement. Always water the soil directly rather than wetting the foliage.

Redshank: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your redshank 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?: Yes, the spores can easily travel through the air to nearby plants. Isolate your Redshank until the spots are gone.
Should I throw the plant away?: No, you do not need to discard it. With proper pruning and treatment, your Redshank will recover just fine.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why does my Redshank have white spots on its leaves?