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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Thursday - August 11, 2005

From: Toronto, ON
Region: Canada
Topic: Diseases and Disorders
Title: Controlling mildew on Gaillarida sp.
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

Any suggestions for controlling mildew on blanket flower? It's spreading throughout my garden.

ANSWER:

Some plants are prone to mildew and blanket flower (Gaillarida sp.) is one of them. Watering carefully and keeping the area around the plants clean are both important. This online article "How to Detect and Prevent Powdery Mildew" from eHow gives useful prevention and treatment tips.
 

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