White Mold

Water-soaked spots on blossoms or leaves are an early symptom of this fungal disease. A cottony white growth may develop on the spots. White mold attacks many types of edible plants, including beans, peas, potatoes, soybeans, carrots and cabbage. White mold gradually spreads to all above-ground plant parts. Infected tissues wilt, yellow and die. Cool, wet weather favors the development of the disease. The fungus overwinters in the soil.

Prevention and Control of White Mold

• Choose disease-resistant varieties when possible.
• Space plants and rows widely so that plants remain dry as much as possible.
• Avoid handling plants when wet.
• Water early in the day so plants dry before nightfall. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses rather than overhead watering.
• Minimize the use of nitrogen fertilizers.
• Uproot and destroy diseased plants as soon as you notice them.