I am visiting in Tappahannock Va. My mother's Crepe Myrtle which was recently pruned has developed a white powdery fungus on the new shoots. The plant has good air circulation and is in a semi shaded area.

What fungicide is rec. by you nice people? I know nothing about these plants.

Thanks in advance

Hello, nowwhat. That reminds me that I should ck one of my CMs. It usually suffers from PM & aphids at this time of the year.

Generally speaking, Crape Myrtles varieties that are named with Indian Names are resistant to PM. Sulfur dusts or wettable sulfur sprays are effective preventative controls. Mildew fungicides such as Daconil 2787 and Ortho Funginex, including a solution of water/milk, can be used on plants with the disease. It has been suggested that every 3rd or 4th application should use a different class of fungicides in order to prevent development of a fungal strain that resists a specific type of fungicide. Re-apply every 2 weeks. Read the directions on the labels and wear any necessary protective gear. Early morning is the best time to apply fungicides.

Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers as new growth will succumb to PM easily. Avoid overhead watering (water the soil instead) as well. Prune bushy plants to improve air flow inside the plant.

Luis