Question
Hi,

I have beautiful healthy red bell pepper plants with big green peppers waiting to get ripe. The problem is that some of the peppers have developed a strange white foam that is very white and a little furry looking. It is more dense than what I've seen left by a spittle bug. It is killing the pepper and I am afraid it will kill the whole planting. Please advise me on what to do. I appreciate your help.

Thanks,
Mark

Answer
Your plants have contracted the first stages of powdery mildew or possibly another fungus disease. To combat this disease, you must use a copper based fungicide. I use a product called Soap Shield, and it works great. But it is best to start spraying in early summer to prevent the disease, because once the plant is infected, powdery mildew is extremely difficult to cure. Attached is a link to this product if you are interested.

http://www.gardensalive.com/product.asp?pn=8066&ss=Soap%20Shield

I hope this answered your question. Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.    

Regards,    

Mike