This powdery growth is easily rubbed off. As the plant ages, tiny fruiting bodies of the fungus often form in the powdery growth. Scouting Techniques Look for powdery white growth on leaves and pods. They develop as spots that enlarge and merge to cover the entire surface of the leaves, pods and stems. Early seeding is recommended because powdery mildew infection is more damaging on late-maturing pea crops.
Most varieties are susceptible to powdery mildew but resistant varieties are available.
Consult the provincial seed guide for current information. Crop rotation with non-related crops will help, depending on climatic conditions. Field isolation may assist in reducing infection which occurs by wind movement. Avoid heavy application of fertilizer. Foliar fungicides should only be necessary when the disease appears early in the growing season or if the crop was planted late.