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White powdery mould appears on the buds, leaves and stems. The young buds are particularly affected.
A fungal disease encouraged by the plant being dry at the roots with damp stagnant air around the top of the plant.
It looks unsightly and can mean the buds are do not properly open. Flowering can be hampered but if the plant is well established it is relatively harmless. However, care should be taken with younger plants since these may be drastically weakened.
Organic - remove all dead leaves in autumn to prevent the spores from over wintering. Mulch well in spring and autumn to prevent the roots drying out. If possible, prune plants so they have an open shape and air can move through the branches.
Chemical - spray with a systemic fungicide at the first signs of attack. You can also use this spray prior to any signs of the disease, as a preventative measure.