Plant guide:ðŋ Colocasia (Taro / Elephant Ear)
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Fungal
Powdery Mildew on Colocasia
Commonly affects: Colocasia esculenta (Taro / Elephant Ear)
A white, powdery coating develops on leaf surfaces, particularly toward the end of the growing season or in humid conditions with poor airflow.
Potential Causes
- 1Fungal spores favoured by humidity combined with still, poorly-ventilated conditions
- 2Overcrowded plantings restricting airflow
- 3Temperature fluctuations between day and night contributing to condensation on leaves
Solution Steps
- 1Improve air circulation around the plant
- 2Remove heavily affected leaves
- 3Space plants further apart to reduce humidity buildup between them
- 4Apply a sulphur-based or potassium bicarbonate fungicide if the problem persists
Prevention Tip
Adequate spacing between Colocasia plants, even in a humidity-loving planting, prevents much of the powdery mildew that develops in overcrowded, still conditions.
