Is powdery mildew contagious to other plants?

Yes, it can spread through the air to other plants nearby. It is best to isolate the affected plant until it is fully treated.

Should I throw the plant away?

No, it is usually easy to treat. With better airflow and a little care, your Mouse-ear hawkweed will bounce back just fine.

Mouse-ear hawkweed: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely to see if the spots are white and dusty.
Check the humidity levels in your room.
Inspect the leaves for signs of water droplets.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You see a white, dusty, or flour like coating on the leaves. It often starts in patches and can spread across the whole plant.
What to do: Improve air circulation around the plant immediately. You can wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a mild neem oil spray to treat the fungus.
Water splashing
Possible
How to tell: Small brown or dark spots appear on the leaves after watering. This happens when water sits on the foliage for too long.
What to do: Always water at the base of the plant rather than over the top. Try to keep the leaves dry during your watering routine.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mouse-ear hawkweed

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

Powdery mildew can weaken the plant if left untreated for a long time. Address it as soon as you see the first white spots to prevent a full infestation.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your plant has plenty of space and good airflow to keep the leaves dry and healthy.

Mouse-ear hawkweed: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mouse-ear hawkweed 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 can spread through the air to other plants nearby. It is best to isolate the affected plant until it is fully treated.
Should I throw the plant away?: No, it is usually easy to treat. With better airflow and a little care, your Mouse-ear hawkweed will bounce back just fine.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why are there spots on my Mouse-ear hawkweed?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your mouse-ear hawkweed?