Q. What is the white powdery substance on my peonies?
Answer
It sounds like you have powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect many plants, especially in late summer. Usually the fungus is plant-specific, so the powdery mildew attacking your peony is different from what may be attacking lilacs.
In late summer, do not do anything to your peony. The flowers finished earlier in the season and everything will be dying down soon enough. You could try to treat chemically, but it's probably not worth the time and expense.
** But be sure to remove all infected plant material and throw it away. **
See Colorado State Extension's powdery mildew fact sheet for more detailed information.
For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service
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