Powdery mildew and milk to fight it...!

Until today that is, there has been no cure to powdery mildew.. 

Meeldauw, Mildew.. click twice to enlarge.

Wagner Bettiol, a scientist in Brazil found that using milk will actually control this powdery mildew. Yes, normal milk will actually control powdery mildew and contains a natural foliar fertilizer, boosting the plant's immune system in the process. Bettiol found that a mixture of at least 10% milk mixed with 90% water will significantly reduce the severity of powdery mildew when sprayed weekly on the plant. Scientists are still baffled as to why this powdery mildew is actually cured from just using milk. Some believe it might just be to the fact that most milk contains natural salts and amino acids that acts like a natural germicide. New Zealand also found out about this new cure and has started to see changes on the grapes that are used for wine production.

It is amazing that this simple natural ingredient will cure powdery mildew when chemical sprays were not as effective. It is great to hear that there is a natural cure, especially since the produce is grown to eat and drink. Organic gardeners such as me are thrilled! Basically, any kind of milk can be used, even skim milk. It is a green cure and inexpensive, how could that be any better!
You will need to apply natural fungicides to plants infected with powdery mildew every five days or so to keep the mildew under control. Removing dead or infected leaves, and watering plants at the roots rather than from overhead, will help stop the mildew from spreading.You will need to apply natural fungicides to plants infected with powdery mildew every five days or so to keep the mildew under control. Removing dead or infected leaves, and watering plants at the roots rather than from overhead, will help stop the mildew from spreading.

In his experiments with zucchini plants, Bettiol found that a weekly spray of milk at a concentration of at least 10% (1 part milk to 9 parts water) significantly reduced the severity of powdery mildew infection on the plants by 90%. While some gardeners may be tempted to increase the concentration of milk for more control, Bettiol found that once concentrations rose above 30%, an innoccuous fungus began to grow on the plants. How does milk control powdery mildew?

Scientist aren't 100% sure how milk works to control this disease. It seems that milk is a natural germicide. In addition, it contains several naturally occurring salts and amino acids that are taken up by the plant. From previous experiments using sodium bicarbonate, potassium phosphate, and other salts, researchers have found that the disease is sensitive to these salts. It is possible then, that milk boosts the plant's immune system to prevent the disease.

Other ingredients to make y're own spray:  hot peppers, garlic, onions, soap.  
 

 Clean everything around the place, it easely spreads again.....!!!!