Powdery Mildew Late Flower: Effects, Solutions, And Prevention for Cannabis Plants

Cannabis plants are vulnerable to various pests and diseases, with powdery mildew being one of the most common issues faced during the late flowering stage. This fungal infection can have detrimental effects on the plant’s health and productivity, potentially jeopardizing the quality and yield of the harvest. 

Powdery mildew on late flowers appears as a white powder spreading through the leaves and buds. To combat the spread, you need to trim affected areas off, use natural remedy solutions, have better air circulation, have proper humidity levels, retain accurate temperature levels ideal for growing and monitor the growth religiously. 

In this blog, we will delve into the consequences of powdery mildew late-flower cannabis plants, explore potential remedies to combat the infection, and discuss the best preventive measures to keep your plants healthy.

What Happens To Cannabis Plants As They Get Powdery Mildew Late Flower?

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease known as Ascomycetes belonging to the Erysiphales group. When cannabis plants are affected by powdery mildew during the late flowering stage, several adverse effects can occur:

• Stunted Growth: Powdery mildew inhibits the plant’s ability to grow and develop properly, resulting in stunted growth and reduced overall size.
• Decreased Yield: Infected flowers often suffer from decreased resin production and compromised potency, leading to lower yields and diminished quality.
• Fungal Spore Spread: As the infection progresses, powdery mildew produces abundant spores, which can easily spread to nearby plants and cause further contamination.
• Leaf Discoloration and Die-Off: The fungal disease can turn cannabis leaves yellow or brown until they eventually die off. 

Can You Get Rid Of Powdery Mildew On Late Flowers?

You can’t take the fungi off mature buds entirely, but you can take actions to minimize their effects and spore spread. 

While it is challenging to eliminate powdery mildew completely during the late flowering stage, there are several steps you can take to mitigate its effects and salvage your crop:

• Prune Infected Areas: Trim affected leaves and flowers carefully, ensuring to dispose of them properly to prevent further contamination.
• Use Natural Remedies: Apply organic fungicides or natural solutions like neem oil, baking soda, or potassium bicarbonate to help suppress the growth of powdery mildew.
• Improve Air Circulation: Enhance ventilation within your growing space by using fans or adjusting the layout to reduce humidity and create an environment less conducive to fungal growth.
• Maintain Proper Hygiene: Practice good hygiene by regularly cleaning your growing area, tools, and equipment to minimize the risk of fungal spores spreading.

Best Ways To Prevent Powdery Mildew Late Flower

Prevention is crucial to avoid the onset of powdery mildew during the late flowering stage. By implementing the following preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering this fungal disease:

• Proper Airflow and Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow and ventilation within your grow room to maintain optimal humidity levels and discourage fungal growth.
• Temperature and Humidity Control: Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity range that is unfavorable for powdery mildew. Ideal conditions include temperatures between 65-85°F and humidity levels around 40-60%.
• Regular Inspections: Routinely inspect your plants for early signs of powdery mildew, such as white powdery spots on leaves and flowers. Early detection allows for prompt action and minimizes the spread of the disease.
• Select Resistant Strains: Choose cannabis strains known for their resistance to powdery mildew. Research and consult with experienced growers to identify suitable strains for your specific growing conditions.

Powdery mildew can be a significant challenge for cannabis growers, particularly during the late flowering stage. Understanding the consequences of this fungal infection, exploring potential solutions for its management, and adopting preventive measures are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of cannabis plants.

If you’re a cannabis grower wanting to learn about the ins and outs of growing, you can register for our free Ultimate Marijuana Home Growing webinar.  Subscribe to our newsletter to get updates about indoor and outdoor growing tips. New subscribers receive a free Quickstart Guide to Growing Marijuana Ebook and they can join our Weed Wisdom Facebook Community.