powdery mildew

noun

1
: an ascomycetous fungus (family Erysiphaceae) producing abundant powdery conidia on the host
2
: a plant disease caused by a powdery mildew

Examples of powdery mildew in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Neem oil is a natural fungicide that helps to control common apple diseases like apple scab, rust and powdery mildew. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025 Other pests and diseases that afflict Japanese cherries include powdery mildew, borers, mites and tent caterpillars. Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 5 Apr. 2025 If possible, water marigolds from the bottom and keep their leaves dry to reduce the chances of damping off and powdery mildew. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Apr. 2025 Not only does this require less space, but the vines will have less contact with the soil, which can help prevent fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew. Lauren David, Southern Living, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for powdery mildew

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of powdery mildew was in 1889

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Cite this Entry

“Powdery mildew.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powdery%20mildew. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

powdery mildew

noun
: a fungus that is a parasite and produces a large number of powdery spores on the host
also : a plant disease caused by such a fungus

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