Powdery mildew

White powdery coating on young leaves and shoots, which become deformed and stop growing.

How to recognise

• The white coating wipes off with a finger: typical of powdery mildew.
• Look especially at this year's young shoots.

What to do

• Cut off and dispose of affected shoot tips.
• Avoid excess nitrogen fertiliser, which favours soft growth.

Prevent

• Choose less susceptible varieties and keep an airy crown.

Trees affected