Is powdery mildew contagious?

Yes, the spores travel through the air. Keep infected plants away from your other healthy violets.

Should I throw the plant away?

Not necessarily. Most cases can be managed by pruning and improving air circulation.

What is the white dust on my Marsh violet? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Rub the white spots to see if they wipe off like dust.
Check if the plant is in a spot with stagnant air.
Look for signs of water splashing on lower leaves.

Likely causes

Powdery mildew
Most likely
How to tell: White, powdery patches appear on the leaves and stems. Eventually, the leaves may turn yellow and drop off.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infected leaves to stop the spread. Improve air circulation by moving the plant or thinning out nearby foliage.
Water splashing
Possible
How to tell: Small brown or tan spots appear after watering. This happens when soil splashes onto the leaves.
What to do: Water at the base of the plant rather than over the top. Use mulch to keep the soil from splashing up during rain or watering.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your marsh violet

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 is serious if it covers the whole plant. Treat it early before it weakens the entire colony.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your plant has enough space between it and other plants. Water only the soil and keep the leaves dry.

Marsh violet: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your marsh violet 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, the spores travel through the air. Keep infected plants away from your other healthy violets.
Should I throw the plant away?: Not necessarily. Most cases can be managed by pruning and improving air circulation.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

What is the white dust on my Marsh violet?