Lima Bean Downy Mildew has been confirmed in Sussex County near Milton. Weather conditions have been conducive for disease development. Be sure to scout all limas for downy mildew from this point on until harvest. Consult the Delaware Commercial Vegetable Production Recommendations for fungicide options: http://extension.udel.edu/ag/files/2012/03/Beans.pdf.
Downy mildew on limas is characterized by white downy growth on the pods, petioles and racemes. A reddish brown border often surrounds the infected area on the pods.
Downy mildew on petioles and stems often produces the distorted “crooks” seen in this picture.