Is powdery mildew contagious?

Yes, it spreads through spores in the air. Keep infected plants away from healthy ones if possible.

Should I use a fungicide?

You can use a sulfur-based fungicide if the infection is severe. Always follow the label instructions carefully.

Hairy vetch: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Rub the white spot with your finger to see if it wipes away.
Check if the plant is crowded by other vegetation.
Look at the weather patterns over the last week.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It looks like someone dusted flour over your plant.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infected leaves to stop the spread. Improve airflow by thinning out crowded plants and avoid overhead watering.
High Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear after a period of damp, muggy weather. The fungus thrives in these conditions.
What to do: Ensure your vetch is planted in a spot with full sun. If the humidity is high, try to water only at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your hairy vetch

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

It is serious if the spots cover most of the leaves and the plant stops growing. A few small spots are common during wet seasons and usually do not kill the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Give your plants plenty of space to ensure good air circulation. Water at the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves.

Hairy vetch: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your hairy vetch 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, it spreads through spores in the air. Keep infected plants away from healthy ones if possible.
Should I use a fungicide?: You can use a sulfur-based fungicide if the infection is severe. Always follow the label instructions carefully.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why are there white spots on my hairy vetch leaves?