Powdery mildew of pumpkin

Common fungal disease of pumpkin. Appears regularly in the second half of the season, especially in August and September.

Symptom photos

Powdery mildew of pumpkin — Leaf covered in white, powdery growth next to a healthy leaf
Leaf covered in white, powdery growth next to a healthy leaf Photo: Schlaghecken Josef, licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Symptoms

  • White powdery coating on leaves
  • Leaf yellowing
  • Leaf die-back

What it does to the crop

  • Premature leaf die-back
  • Smaller fruits
  • Poorer storage quality

What encourages it

  • Warm, dry weather
  • Humid nights
  • End of summer

Prevention

  • Resistant varieties
  • Avoiding overcrowding
  • Removal of infected leaves

⚠️ Before you reach for a spray

This atlas is informational and still growing — different diseases can look almost identical. Confirm the diagnosis and read the product label before applying any plant protection product. If you are unsure, ask your local extension or advisory service.

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Other pumpkin problems

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