Host-jumping pathogens: the amazing story of oak mildew

[@GamerdevilPro]

Very interesting, I have to look at the wisteria leaves when the sun is up. We have one growing next to a few quercus robur that are showing signs of that particular pathogen each year. Would be interesting if it can make the jump to the robinia pseudoacacia thats pretty invasive here and growing alongside the oak trees since its also related to peas, could help the other trees to be more competitive with it. Fascinating dynamics! P.S.: I just realized I currently have a small mango standing in half shade below the oak...

[@Bill_Sutherland]

I don't think it has spread much yet on wisteria. Lets me know what you find.

[@GamerdevilPro]

​@@Bill_Sutherlandah just thought about this again so here's the follow-up: I couldn't spot anything when I looked but it seemed like even the oak wasn't that bad anymore as in peak summer due to all the rainfalls. Maybe I can remember to look at it next summer when it's dry again and the oak leaves are just covered with it and give another update then :D

[@Bill_Sutherland]

@@GamerdevilPro Thanks for the update. Interesting that the infection isn't too bad.

[@helenamcginty4920]

I hadnt heard of this. I live now in Andalucia, Spain. Out local oak is quercus ilex. I shall be looking out for this now. As this tree is native here it might not be so badly affected although the last few winters we have had very little rain so all plants are stressed.

[@Bill_Sutherland]

Thanks. I know it can get infected with powdery mildew. Let me know what you find. This tree is locally common in north Norfolk. The story is that a son of one of the Earls of Leicester, who own Holkham Hall, was a great collector of Italian art and Q. Ilex branches was used as packing for the sculptures and paintings sent home. Early polystyrene chips!