Will the white spots go away on their own?

No, powdery mildew usually spreads if left untreated. You must intervene to stop it from damaging the entire plant.

Can I use neem oil for these spots?

Yes, neem oil is an effective organic treatment for fungal issues. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Upright hedge parsley: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for white fuzz.
Check if the plant is crowded by other vegetation.
Look for signs of moisture sitting on the leaves.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, floury substance covering the leaves and stems. It often starts as small patches before spreading across the foliage.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infected leaves to stop the spread. Apply a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda to a gallon of water as a gentle fungicide spray.
Water Splashing
Possible
How to tell: Small, light colored spots appear on lower leaves after watering. This happens when soil particles splash onto the foliage.
What to do: Water at the base of the plant rather than over the top. Add a thin layer of mulch around the base to prevent soil from kicking up.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your upright hedge parsley

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 coating covers more than half the plant, it will struggle to photosynthesize and may die back. Small, isolated spots are easy to manage with quick pruning.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your plant has plenty of space for air to circulate around it. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Upright hedge parsley: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your upright hedge parsley 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 go away on their own?: No, powdery mildew usually spreads if left untreated. You must intervene to stop it from damaging the entire plant.
Can I use neem oil for these spots?: Yes, neem oil is an effective organic treatment for fungal issues. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why does my upright hedge parsley have white spots?