Powdery mildew and IPM address it as which type of disease, and how is it addressed?

• A. It is a viral disease; treat with sanitation
• B. It is a fungal disease; address with airflow, proper spacing, resistant varieties, and targeted fungicides as needed
• C. It is a insect pest; control with insecticides
• D. It is a bacterial disease; treat with copper-based sprays

Answer: (B)

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease. In an IPM approach, management focuses on reducing conditions that favor fungal growth and using resistant varieties when possible. Improve airflow and proper spacing to lower leaf surface moisture and humidity, and prune to open the canopy so air can move through the plants. Choosing varieties with resistance decreases susceptibility and helps prevent outbreaks. Sanitation—removing infected material—reduces inoculum. Regular monitoring lets you catch problems early. When control is needed, employ targeted fungicides rather than broad-spectrum treatments and rotate products to minimize resistance, applying them at the first sign of powdery mildew or under favorable conditions for the fungus. The aim is to prevent infection and limit spread through a combination of cultural practices and selective chemical controls.