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white spots on sweet potato slips #862664

Asked March 27, 2024, 4:20 PM EDT

What are these white spots on my sweet potato slips? They seem to be just in the tops of leaves and some on the stems. I looked at them under a magnifying glass, but I cannot tell if they are insects. They are growing on a heating mat under lights. This is my first time growing slips. Thanks so much!

Calvert County Maryland

Expert Response

We don't see indications of a pest or disease, and this appears to be abiotic (not caused by a living organism like a pest or pathogen). It's hard to see clearly what the residue is, but it might be exudates, which is secretions from the leaf, which can happen when plants are over-watered. A similar phenomenon is cystoliths, which are mineral (calcium, for instance) secretions by foliage that can be normal for some species in certain environmental conditions. The current conditions in the photos don't look too wet, but it's hard to say for certain. Make sure the potting mix isn't staying soggy and can dry slightly between waterings (and that is drains well). Using a fan on a gentle, low speed to circulate air over the sprouts may also help them manage leaf moisture and can reduce the risk of a fungal outbreak going forward.

Miri

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