How to Treat Mildew on an Indoor Begonia

One of the most detrimental diseases to any begonia plant is mildew. The symptoms of mildew include dark black spots on leaves or the development of white spots, which is called powdery mildew. Elimination of mildew from begonias must be done at the first sign of infection to prevent spread of the disease and the eventual death of the plant. Treatment for indoor begonias with mildew includes a combination of fungicide application and removal of infected plant parts.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Pruning shears
• Gloves
• Gentle toothbrush
• Painter’s face mask
• Fungicide for indoor plants

1. Examine the begonia carefully and remove all leaves that have a black or white spotted appearance. If more than 50 percent of the begonia is infected with mildew remove 50 percent of the leaves and leave the remaining leaves for further treatment.
2. Use pruning shears to cut off any stems that are infected. Do not remove more than four to five stems, as this will cause the begonia to go into shock. If more than four or five stems are infected, choose the ones with the most mildew for removal.
3. Put on gloves and take the begonia outdoors. Using your fingers or a gentle toothbrush, rub off as much of the mildew as possible from the remaining plant leaves and stem.
4. Spray the begonia with a fungicide that is specifically formulated for indoor plants and that states it is effective at killing mildew. Thoroughly saturate the leaves and the stem of the plant with the fungicide. Allow the begonia to remain outside until it is dry and then move it back indoors.

Tips & Warnings

• When rubbing off the mildew, it is a good idea to wear a face mask to prevent inhalation of mildew spores.

• Mildew is an indication that the plant has been overwatered or is in an area of high humidity. Reduce future watering or change the plant location to prevent further mildew growth.

• After treating the begonia with fungicide, do not place it where pets or small children can touch it.