Will the white spots kill my soapwort?

Usually no, but it can make the plant look unsightly and reduce its vigor. Treat it early to keep the plant healthy.

Can I use a store bought fungicide?

Yes, you can use a garden fungicide if the baking soda mixture does not work. Follow the label instructions carefully.

Common soapwort: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for a powdery white residue on the leaves.
Check if the plant is crowded by other garden neighbors.
Inspect the soil moisture to ensure it is not staying soggy.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, dusty coating on the surface of the leaves. It often starts as small patches and spreads quickly.
What to do: Prune away the most heavily infected leaves to improve air circulation. Spray the remaining foliage with a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water. Apply this once a week until the white dust disappears.
Water splashing
Possible
How to tell: Small brown or white spots appear after you water the plant from above. The leaves look otherwise healthy.
What to do: Always water at the base of the plant near the soil line. Avoid getting the leaves wet during your watering routine.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common soapwort

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

Worry if the white spots cover more than half the foliage, as this weakens the plant. A few small spots are manageable with quick treatment.

Stopping it coming back

Space your plants out to ensure good airflow and always water at the base to keep leaves dry.

Common soapwort: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common soapwort 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

Will the white spots kill my soapwort?: Usually no, but it can make the plant look unsightly and reduce its vigor. Treat it early to keep the plant healthy.
Can I use a store bought fungicide?: Yes, you can use a garden fungicide if the baking soda mixture does not work. Follow the label instructions carefully.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why does my common soapwort have white spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your common soapwort?