Disease/pests Attacking My Herbs, Would Like Some Help!

Question

Recently my mint and oregano have been looking brown in some parts, with black dots on the leaves and underside, as well as some white powdery bits on the leaves too. I’ve looked in the soil and there seems to be bugs crawling, they hop away when you try to touch them. I think their larvae look like worms as well. My guess is either fungus gnats or thrips, but I can’t tell. Would my herbs still be safe to harvest or should I throw them away? Also, are thrips attracted to compost soil? As it seems to affect my plants with compost in it. Would like some help, thanks!

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Answer 1

This appears to be Downy Mildew. Unfortunately, this infection favors overly wet conditions. This will draw in insects that feed on the infection, the plant, and other fungi in the soil.

Fungicides can help, but starting over with fresh soil will be much faster and fruitful. You will want to make sure that the soil dries out on top between waterings.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/growing-herbs-indoors.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/herb-plants-growing-in-one-pot.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/growing-herbs-in-containers.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/general-care-for-your-herb-garden.htm