Q.Ornamental Potato Vine Disease
I have black potato vine with small growths on the leaves. There are tiny white raised spots on the leaves. You can feel them with your fingers on both top and bottom of the leaf. They cannot be brushed or rubbed off. They are stuck very well to the leaf and seem to collect near the veins. Spraying them with a baking soda mixture appears to help a bit. I would like to know what this is, what causes it and how to get rid of it.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It sounds like it could be white rust, edema or a fungus of some type. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/white-rust-disease.htm (uncommon in ornamental sweet potatoes but not unheard of), https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/sweet-potato/sweet-potato-with-white-leaves.htm It may help to treat the plant with a fungicide, like neem oil, to treat any fugal issues or even insect pests that may be affecting it.
