Image: Powdery Mildew on Honeydew Melon Leaf
Published: February 19, 2026 at 5:33:20 PM UTC
High-resolution image showing powdery mildew infection on a honeydew melon leaf, useful for plant pathology and gardening education.
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Image description
This high-resolution landscape-oriented image captures a close-up view of a honeydew melon (Cucumis melo) leaf exhibiting clear signs of powdery mildew infection. The leaf dominates the frame, showcasing its broad, slightly lobed shape and rich green coloration. Prominent veins radiate from the central stem, forming a branching network that divides the leaf into distinct sections. The surface texture is slightly rough and matte, with fine hairs visible along the edges and veins.
The most striking feature is the presence of powdery mildew—white, dusty fungal growth that appears in irregular patches across the upper surface of the leaf. These patches vary in size and shape, ranging from small circular specks to larger, diffuse blotches. The mildew is concentrated along the central and lateral veins but also spreads toward the leaf margins. The contrast between the dark green leaf tissue and the pale fungal growth highlights the severity of the infection.
Attached to the leaf is a pale green stem covered in fine, white trichomes. The stem curves gently upward from the lower right corner, connecting the leaf to the main vine. Just to the left of the leaf, a partially visible honeydew melon fruit emerges from the foliage. The melon is pale yellow with a smooth, slightly waxy rind and subtle surface texture, indicating early ripening.
In the background, additional leaves and stems from the melon plant are visible, though slightly out of focus. These leaves are similarly shaped but appear healthier, with fewer or no visible mildew spots. Thin, spiral-shaped tendrils extend from the vines, curling around nearby stems and leaves. The soil beneath the plant is dark brown and slightly moist, with small clumps of organic matter and decomposing leaf litter.
The image is lit with soft, natural daylight, which enhances the leaf’s texture and the powdery appearance of the mildew. The lighting also casts gentle shadows that add depth and dimensionality to the scene. This photograph is ideal for educational use in plant pathology, gardening guides, or agricultural diagnostics, as it clearly illustrates the visual symptoms of powdery mildew on a commonly cultivated crop.
The image is related to: A Guide to Growing Honeydew Melon in Your Own Garden