Does your basil have white spots?
I’m glad you’re reading this article! I’ve been through the same thing, because I grow basil in a pot on my balcony and unfortunately, it also affected my plant.
For white spots on basil leaves, there’s no particular diagnosis… But I’ll help you get to the root of the problem!
Multiple factors could be playing a role in this issue including pest infestations, fungal disease, or perhaps even excessive sun exposure.
Look for discoloration patterns and see if something appears to be out of the ordinary, it’s a simple tip, but it’s worth trying!
Holes in foliage, burnt leaf tips, and white rings or circular patterns on leaves are all indicators that something is wrong that needs to be addressed.
Before you even start, read here some causes and solutions for leggy basil.
5 Common Reasons Behind White Spots On Basil
5) Fungal Infections (Powdery Mildew)
As the name suggests, powdery mildew leaves a powder-like residue and white spots on leaves (We already talked about this problem in zucchini).
Basil plants that aren’t spaced out properly and planted suffocatingly close to each other are at a higher risk of this infection.
Additionally, watering the leaves instead of the base of the basil plants can increase the risk of fungal development.
4) Pest Infestations (Spider Mites & Thrips)
Pests like aphids, spider mites, and thrips can all potentially be responsible for the white spots on your basil plants.
These tiny little garden monsters (sorry spiders…) either feed on the leaves or sap of the plant and leave behind white marks.
Pest infestations are relatively easy to identify because they usually leave a sort of pattern or trail on the plant’s foliage.
3) Sunburn Or Scorching
If you left your basil pot outdoors under direct sunlight for too long and the leaves are a bit discolored now, that’s sun damage you’re looking at.
Scorched basil leaves can turn a strange white color or develop discoloration spots all over. It means your plant was left in direct sunlight for an extended period of time and its leaf tissue has probably dried out.
2) Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiency is perhaps the most common reason I see behind discoloration in basil leaves. A lack of potassium is often to blame for pale spots on plant foliage.
However, don’t make the mistake of thinking the problem is caused by a deficiency of just one nutrient… This matter should always be addressed as a whole.
1) Hard Water Residue
Oftentimes, what you think of as a white spot on your basil plant is actually chalky calcium carbonate buildup. It can cover up the leaves, making it difficult for the plant to efficiently absorb sunlight.
The negative effects of hard water residue can become noticeable rather quickly. Therefore, it’s best to act immediately and address the issue head-on.
I believe you will love this article about how to prune basil (it will help you a Loy!).
How To Fix White Spots On Basil?
There’s no point knowing what causes white spots on your basil if you don’t know how to solve the problem, right? Well, it’s time to help you with that!
Once you identify the underlying cause behind the white spots, with some focused effort, the issue can certainly be resolved.
Depending on whether your issue is fungal infection related or a mere pest infestation, different tips and tricks will work differently for you.
Before you leave, find out if basil regrow once cut (amazing article!).
Can These White Spots Damage My Basil?
Ofcourse! Any abnormal spots on your basil leaves suggest something isn’t right. It means your plant is under stress and needs immediate attention.
If you fail to take the right steps to fix the issue or contain it at least, your basil is at serious risk of damage or perhaps even complete death.
So, did you like the article? I hope so! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below, I’ll try to answer as quickly as possible!
