Now that you have Basil Downy Mildew, what do you do next? It is a highly contagious disease, with little warning. Because it is transmitted through spores that are nearly invisible to the naked eye, it can be blown in on the wind, carried in on clothing, hands or tools. Here are some things you can do after you find Basil Downy Mildew in your garden.
Remove Infected Plants
Basil that has become infected with Downy Mildew may have a yellowish appearance, similar to a nutritional problem. The leaves turn yellow and fall off, while the stems wither, and the plant eventually dies. The most common symptom is the dusty spots, actually spores, that are located on the bottoms of the leaves. If you want a definitive diagnosis, you can bring an affected leaf to your local County Extension office for identification. Carefully pinch off a leaf and place it in a ziploc baggie for transport.
Once you are certain that it is Downy Mildew, cover the entire plant with a bag to prevent as much of the spores from being shaken off as possible. Pull up the entire plant and remove from garden area. Do not try to compost or try to remove only the visibly affected leaves. Both of these techniques can result in the spread of the spores. Do not save your basil seeds from any part of that year's crop. The spores can infect the seeds and affect the following year's plants.
Will It Stay In My Soil?
Yes. The disease can stay viable in the soil for many years. Some experts say that the spores can stay viable for 8 years or more.If nothing else, rotate your crop of basil, and plant in an entirely new location for the next season.
Is Basil Poisonous That Has Downy Mildew?
In a word, no. However, it is not advisable to eat leaves that are clearly affected. When you first notice signs of BDM, it is best to remove the entire plant, and make pesto out of all the healthy leaves. Because basil grows so fast, quick removal and starting new plants in a new location is the best way to prevent spreading spores.
