Late summer is prime powdery mildew season and members of the pumpkin family (cucurbits) are prime targets.

Erysiphe cichoracearum and Podosphaera xanthii are the two most common pathogens known to cause powdery mildew in melons, squash and pumpkins. Growing resistant varieties and keeping growing conditions uncongested will help to reduce the incidence of disease. But once powdery mildew is upon you, the are a range of IPM solutions available. This outstanding guide to Powdery Mildew in Cucurbits from Cornell University School of Agriculture and Life Sciences discusses causes, disease cycle and controls in depth.

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- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service