Got that powdery white stuff infecting your courgettes, dahlias, or peas? That’s powdery mildew — a common garden fungus that can slow down growth and ruin your harvest. But don’t panic (and don’t reach for chemicals either). These 4 natural cures are cheap, easy to make at home, and actually work. Bonus? Each costs less than a euro per treatment.
1. Prune & Create Space
Start with the basics:
- Remove infected leaves immediately.
- Space your plants for better airflow.
- Water at the base, not on the leaves.
This slows the spread of spores and makes the environment less ideal for fungi.
2. Make Your Own Natural Sprays
Baking Soda Spray (for early-stage mildew)
Mix:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil
- Optional: a few drops of dish soap (to help it stick)
Spray weekly on both sides of the leaves. Avoid applying in direct sunlight.
Milk Spray (preventative & mild treatment)
Mix:
- 1 part full-fat milk
- 9 parts water
Spray lightly on leaves, especially the underside. Avoid using in humid heat, as milk may spoil on the plant.
3. Garlic Extract
- Crush 2 cloves of garlic
- Mix with 1 liter of water
- Let steep for 24 hours, strain, and spray
Garlic has antifungal and antibacterial properties — a natural defender!
4. Horsetail Tea (Equisetum)
- Boil a handful of dried or fresh horsetail
- Let cool, strain, and spray on leaves
Horsetail is rich in silica, which strengthens plants and helps them resist disease.
Final Tips
- Repeat weekly for best results
- Only spray early in the morning or on cloudy days
- Still struggling with mildew? Choose mildew-resistant varieties or try to improve soil health.
Have you tried any of these methods? Share your experience or tag us on Instagram (@thefarmdream) when you give one a go!