Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

What is one way to manage powdery mildew on plants?

1. Overdosing with fertilizers

2. Improving air circulation

3. Using a plant's natural oils

4. Excessive watering

The correct answer is: Improving air circulation

Improving air circulation is an effective management strategy for powdery mildew because this fungal disease thrives in warm, humid conditions. When plants are overcrowded or positioned too close together, humidity levels around the leaves can increase, creating an ideal environment for the fungi to develop. By enhancing air circulation, you can reduce humidity, allowing foliage to dry more quickly after rain or watering. This not only makes the environment less hospitable for the growth of powdery mildew but also promotes the overall health of the plants, preventing other potential diseases that can develop under similarly stagnant conditions. While the other options could have negative impacts, they do not effectively address the underlying conditions conducive to powdery mildew. For instance, overdosing with fertilizers can lead to lush growth that attracts more disease, while excessive watering can worsen humidity levels. Although using a plant's natural oils might provide some fungicidal properties, these treatments are typically more reactive rather than proactive in managing issues like powdery mildew, making air circulation the most direct method of prevention.