Powdery mildew is a common fungus of dogwoods and crape myrtles. Often appearing in July, the fungus appears as a white dust on the leaves of affected plants. Leaf curling may be observed as well.

You can't cure po

wdery mildew once it begins. You must prevent it by spraying fungicides beginning in early summer. You can prevent it from spreading to the rest of the plant by spraying fungicides in mid July according to label instructions. You can use any lawn and garden fungicide that is labeled for use on trees and shrubs.

Remember, the fungus does not really hurt the plant even though it does make it unattractive.