Downy mildew on spinach—Peronospora farinosa f. sp. spinaciae
Downy mildew causes light green to yellow angular spots on the upper surfaces of leaves. White fluffy
growth of the fungus develops on the underside when moisture is present, but disappears soon after leaves
dry. With time these lesions turn brown and dry up. Older leaves are attacked first. Severely infected
leaves may die. On rare occasions the pathogen can become systemic, causing dark discoloration of stem
tissue.
Life cycle
Damp, moist conditions and cool temperatures are ideal for the development and spread of downy mildew. Spores, produced only under conditions of subdued light or darkness and a near-saturated atmosphere, are dispersed by wind and, in cool, moist conditions, they can survive several days. Free moisture on the leaf is necessary for spore germination and infection, but moisture is not required for vegetative growth once the fungus is within the leaf. Areas with year-round vegetable culture and favorable climate often have the most serious outbreaks. Dry, desiccating winds and clear, warm days inhibit the growth and spread of downy mildew.
Solutions
The best way to prevent downy mildew is to avoid the environmental conditions that favor it. Freely circulating
air, allowing plants to dry between irrigations, and keeping leaves as dry as possible are good ways to
limit the disease. Use raised beds and avoid sprinkler irrigation. This fungus attacks only spinach; keeping
spinach out of the garden for a year will lower disease incidence. Cool, moist weather in early spring
and late fall favor the disease, so adjusting planting times may help in some areas. Destroy infected
crop debris immediately. Resistant cultivars are available. |
Spores of downy mildew on the underside of a spinach leaf
Yellow
spots on upper surface of leaf
|
