Some Of My Australian Violets Have White Splotches On The Leaves And Some Leaves Have Holes In Them. Thank You!

Question

They were just planted in pretty deep shade about two months ago (under some ficus trees and bordered by brick and a wooden fence) They are hand watered about once a week. They are spreading and seem to be thriving. I looked closely for any critters and did see some tiny back dots not apparently attached. I had a traumatizing bout of cabbage worms on my lettuce recently misdiagnosed because I saw many little flies. Treated with neem oil instead of Bt which I understand might have worked. The dirt the violets were planted in was amended and had been bare for three years. Thank you so much for any advice. I

Answer 1

Unfortunately, your photos did not come through. I will be unable to diagnose the issue. It does sound a bit like downy mildew, and since these are very susceptible to water damage from any moisture being on the leaves, this may be what is causing the issue.

Here is an article that will explain:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/downy-mildew.htm

There are many other diseases that can destroy these types of Violets, which can be classified as Viola and cared for as most Viola will be. Fungal infections are common. Fungicides may be necessary:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/biofungicide-information.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/homemade-fungicide.htm

This article will explain the differences in some common viola:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/violet/types-of-violets.htm