Azalea Bush Covered in a Greenish, Powdery Growth

Question

I have an old azalea bush that is covered in a greenish, powdery looking growth. Many of the limbs have sparse flower and leaf growth, and a few have healthy looking vegatation. I pruned most of the dead wood this winter. This bush has been beautiful in the past and I would like to save it. Should I prune it almost to the ground in an attempt to save it?

Answer 1

White powdery growth, or powdery mildew, on plants is generally associated with a fungal infection. Here is an article on treating this problem that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/get-the-cure-for-powdery-mildew.htm

If it's green colored and sort of flaky, you may be seeing lichen. It is not harmful to the plant, but typically a symptom of stress. This article will explain more about them: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/treatment-tree-lichen.htm