Sulfur is extremely effective in fighting powdery mildew, but is subject to regulatory requirements due to its environmental impact. On large commercial areas, it is legitimate to use it in small doses, but do you inevitably have to resort to sulfur in your garden at home? This article explains how the element works and shows you recommended alternatives.
Using sulfur for mildew control is not advisable
General information about sulphur
Sulfur is usually used against powdery mildew in the form of wetted sulphur. During production, the element is first heated and then crystallized in cold water. The agent dissolves well in water. However, it has no effect on downy mildew.
mode of action
Under the influence of oxygen, light and moisture, the net sulfur forms sulfur dioxide on the leaves. If the fungi feed on this substance, it kills them from the inside.
Prepare sulfur solution
Sulfur must always be heavily diluted before use. To make a sulfur solution:
- Dissolve 20-40 g of liver of sulfur in 10 liters of water
- spray the remedy on affected leaves
- do not use the product in intense sunlight
alternatives
In order to avoid the use of chemical agents, the trade now offers numerous environmentally friendly alternatives. On the one hand, you can also get organic sulfur extracts from specialist retailers. You can spray this on the plants from March to October. There is no danger for insects. It is also advisable to fight powdery mildew with home remedies. Broths that you can easily make yourself are suitable for this. Optionally use for this
- milk or buttermilk
- garlic or horsetail
- silica
- baking soda or baking powder
- nettle manure
- other biological sprays
- Natural predators such as ladybugs also drive mildew away
- Well thought-out bed designs are also useful. Plant basil, chives, chervil, foxgloves or garlic between particularly susceptible plants