White Fungus on Kiwi Leaves

Powdery mildew infects many plants, including kiwi trees.

White fungus on the leaves of a kiwi tree (Actinidia deliciosa) indicates a disease called powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is an umbrella term for fungi appearing as a white or gray dusting on tree leaves.

Identification

Powdery mildew consists of soft white or gray fungi appearing like dust. It usually starts as small white spots that grow into each other, covering the leaf. Powdery mildew can be wiped off like dust.

Effects

Powdery mildew causes kiwi tree leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. It also leads to unsightly distortion of kiwi buds, leaves and fruit.

Prevention/Solution

Certain fungicides kill powdery mildew. You can prevent the spread of powdery mildew by removing affected leaves. If your kiwi tree is an indoor plant, reduce the level of humidity around it to prevent the development of powdery mildew.

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden: Problems Associated With Actinidia deliciosa
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Powdery Mildew
• Cornell University: Powdery Mildew