Question
Hi Will
I have many beautiful African Violets and have had great luck with them.....but now I'm noticing tiny little white specks adhering to the hairy part of the top sides of some of the leaves. I'm concerned that they might be a parasitic pest of some kind. Can you tell me what this is and if needed, how may I correct this. I appriciate any help you can give me.Thank you,
Sue

Answer
Hi Sue,

White specks could be several differnt things. It might be dust or bits of perlite from the soil. If you can blow them off and they don't return, that is probably what it is.

If the specks have a white, cotton-like texture to them, them they are probably mealybugs.

If they are flat patches of white with a slighty webby appearance, then it is probably powdery mildew.

Let me know which you think it is (or e-mail me some good photos), and then I will tell you the best treatment.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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