Vegetable Growing 2022

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by JWK, Jan 1, 2022.

  1. Hanglow

    Hanglow Super Gardener

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    Most of my garlic picked now as rust was getting to it. About 1/3rd I am happy with, the rest have split quite a bit IMG_20220711_182426332.jpg IMG_20220711_182431540_HDR.jpg
     
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    • THFC

      THFC Gardener

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      Hi all,

      First post - and I come with a problem!
      I was wondering if anyone would be able to offer some advice regarding a potential issue with my aubergine plants..

      I have noticed what could be described as white fluff on my aubergine stems actually wipes off.
      I had initially assumed that this white fluff was normal (I hadn't realised it could wipe off) - but am now wondering whether it is the sign of disease or pest.

      I am attaching a couple of photos - the first ('worse' one) is either Moneymaker or Black Beauty, the second (which only has a small amount) is Czech Early.

      All of my aubergine plants have it to some extent - both those in a greenhouse and those outside.
      Any thoughts or advice would be very much appreciated.

      Should I wash off, or leave on!?

      Thank you

      IMG_2225.JPG IMG_2227.JPG
       
    • JWK

      JWK Gardener Staff Member

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      It could be downy mildew if it is on the leaves as well? If it easily rubs off the stems it might just be a natural product of the plant's growth.

      Do the plants look stressed, leaves wilting ?
       
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      • THFC

        THFC Gardener

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        Thanks JWK - I'll look into downy mildew.

        I'm new to growing aubergines, but the leaves seem okish - although some do have lots of tiny yellowish spots.
        Only one plant seems to have wilting leaves - i've got 10 more than seem fine.
         
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        • JWK

          JWK Gardener Staff Member

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          It's a good idea to keep an eye on them, mildew can be bad for many plants then again some will tolerate it without any effect apart from cosmetics. I have grown aubergine once or twice and don't remember getting this problem.
           
        • pete

          pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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          I've never grown aubergine but i get the feeling that the white fluff could be normal, it is with some plants.

          Mildew mostly, and I stress mostly, occurs on leaves.
           
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          • THFC

            THFC Gardener

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            Thanks both.
            Reckon I should leave it on then?

            Maybe i'll wipe it off one as an experiment.

            The vast majority are producing fruit - so whatever it is is doesn't seem to be having a negative effect at the moment. Hopefully it's normal as Pete suggests.
             
          • JWK

            JWK Gardener Staff Member

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            @THFC

            I think it might be normal, I have been looking back at photos I took last year, unfortunately they are not that clear, this is the best one:

            upload_2022-7-14_15-53-57.png


            Zoomed in and it shows white stuff and lots of bumps:
            upload_2022-7-14_15-54-54.png

            So it is maybe how they grow, as pete says if it gets on the leaves it may cause problems. Mildew is encouraged by high humidity, splashing water inside a greenhouse with plants crammed together. However as I said earlier I always get it on Courgettes and sometimes cucumbers and it never affects yield. I just remove the leaves when they are unsightly.
             
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            • pete

              pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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              I think it would be called "mealy" when its part of the usual growth pattern.
               
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              • THFC

                THFC Gardener

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                Ah yes!

                Thanks JWK - very helpful.

                The fluff stays on then.
                 
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