PM – Powdery Mildew Resistant Peas

PM – Powdery Mildew Resistant Peas. Scientific Name: Erysiphe betae. Type: Fungus. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the growth of beets, cantaloupes & melons, cucumbers, peas, squash, Swiss chard, and tomatoes. The fungal disease may cause poor growth of the fruits in cucumbers if the infection is severe. The leaves of the cucumber begin to wither and then fall off prematurely. The disease usually affects older leaves. The leaves tend to turn a light green or a yellow-green when infected. A powdery white or light gray mold appears on the underside of the leaves. An odor similar to that of a musty basement is noticeable in fields with severe powdery mildew. The disease can spread rapidly under favorable conditions and infect the entire leaf within a week. The disease is favored by long periods of dry weather, warm days, and cool nights, as well as fluctuations in day/night temperatures. The most favorable temperatures are 54-81°F and usually occur in early spring and autumn when moisture and humidity are very high. The disease can spread rapidly and can infect a field within 5 days. Fungicides for powdery mildew can help manage the disease. Good air circulation and increasing the space between the plants can help control and prevent the disease. The best option is to use disease resistant varieties.