Leaves Of Peonies Are Covered With Milky White Substance

Question From: K. Stesney - Rochester, Michigan, United States
Q: Why are the leaves on my peonies covered with a milky white substance? Also happening at my daughters house who lives about 3 miles away.

A: They have a fungal disease called powdery mildew. Too late in the season to treat them. When the weather begins to cool cut them to the ground and clean up and dispose of any branches or leaves on the surface of the soil. Fungal diseases are rampant due to hot dry weather. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy