Is powdery mildew harmful to my plant?

It can weaken the plant over time if left untreated, so it is best to address it early.

Should I cut off the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing heavily infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to the rest of the plant.

Why are there white spots on my Self-heal? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the white spots to see if they look like fuzzy powder.
Check if the plant is in a crowded area with poor air circulation.
Inspect the underside of the leaves for further spread.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: A dusty white fungal growth appears on the surface of the leaves.
What to do: Increase airflow around the plant by spacing it further from others. You can wipe the leaves with a mixture of one part milk to nine parts water to inhibit the fungus.
Water Splashing
Possible
How to tell: Small white mineral deposits or spots appear after watering.
What to do: Water directly at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. This keeps the foliage dry and prevents fungal growth.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your self-heal

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 most of the leaves and the plant stops growing, it is a serious infection.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure good air circulation and avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.

Self-heal: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your self-heal 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 harmful to my plant?: It can weaken the plant over time if left untreated, so it is best to address it early.
Should I cut off the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing heavily infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to the rest of the plant.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why are there white spots on my Self-heal?