Symptoms Of Downy Mildew You Should Look Out For In Turnips

SA Farmers Magazine
4 Min Read
Symptoms Of Downy Mildew You Should Look Out For In Turnips


Downy mildew is a fungal disease that commonly affects turnip plants. It is important to identify the symptoms of downy mildew early to prevent the spread of the disease and minimize damage to your crops. Here are the symptoms of downy mildew you should look out for in turnips:

  1. Yellowing of leaves: One of the first signs of downy mildew is the appearance of yellow patches on the leaves. The yellowing usually starts on the lower leaves and gradually moves upward.
  2. Downy growth on the undersides of leaves: As the disease progresses, you may notice a grayish or purplish downy growth on the undersides of the infected leaves. This downy growth is made up of fungal spores and gives the leaves a fuzzy or velvety texture.
  3. Leaf distortion and curling: Infected leaves may become distorted or curled, and their growth may be stunted. The affected leaves may appear twisted or deformed.
  4. Brown or black spots on leaves: As the disease advances, the yellow patches on the leaves may turn brown or black. These spots may also have a water-soaked appearance.
  5. Premature leaf drop: Downy mildew can cause the affected leaves to wilt, wither, and eventually fall off the plant prematurely. This can lead to defoliation and impact the overall health and productivity of the turnip plant.
  6. Reduced plant vigor: Infected plants may exhibit reduced vigor, slower growth, and overall weakness. The plants may appear less healthy compared to unaffected plants.

It is important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection and environmental conditions. If you suspect downy mildew in your turnip plants, it is advisable to consult with a local agricultural extension service or a plant pathologist for proper diagnosis and management strategies.


Downy mildew is a fungal disease that commonly affects turnip plants. It is important to identify the symptoms of downy mildew early to prevent the spread of the disease and minimize damage to your crops. Here are the symptoms of downy mildew you should look out for in turnips:

  1. Yellowing of leaves: One of the first signs of downy mildew is the appearance of yellow patches on the leaves. The yellowing usually starts on the lower leaves and gradually moves upward.
  2. Downy growth on the undersides of leaves: As the disease progresses, you may notice a grayish or purplish downy growth on the undersides of the infected leaves. This downy growth is made up of fungal spores and gives the leaves a fuzzy or velvety texture.
  3. Leaf distortion and curling: Infected leaves may become distorted or curled, and their growth may be stunted. The affected leaves may appear twisted or deformed.
  4. Brown or black spots on leaves: As the disease advances, the yellow patches on the leaves may turn brown or black. These spots may also have a water-soaked appearance.
  5. Premature leaf drop: Downy mildew can cause the affected leaves to wilt, wither, and eventually fall off the plant prematurely. This can lead to defoliation and impact the overall health and productivity of the turnip plant.
  6. Reduced plant vigor: Infected plants may exhibit reduced vigor, slower growth, and overall weakness. The plants may appear less healthy compared to unaffected plants.

It is important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection and environmental conditions. If you suspect downy mildew in your turnip plants, it is advisable to consult with a local agricultural extension service or a plant pathologist for proper diagnosis and management strategies.

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