My peonie plant leaves have what looks like a white coating, what is it?

Question

The leaves have a whitish appearance over the green leaves.  I have tried to wash it off with the hose to no avail.  They bloomed this year the best they ever have, and the plants otherwise look healthy.  The plants are on the southeast and east side of the house.  We have had an unusual summer with frequent rains.  I have not dusted any of my plants, but have fertilized my lawn trying to keep the chemicals off all of the shrubbery around the house.  None of the other plants have this white appearance.

Answer 1

I just took a look at Tarrific Garden Tonics by Jerry Baker, I beleive what you have is mildew growing on the leavesdue to the rain and hot weather. I noticed it yesterday on my Karaganis here in Yellowknife, NWT Canada. According to Page 179 of Jerrys book you can buy a store bought ehemical for this or mix up your own and try it. test it first please I have not tried this my self

1tablespoon of baby shampoo

1tablespoon of  hydrogen peroxide

1 tea sppon of instant tea granuales

2 cups of water

Instructions mix these ingredents in a hand held sprayer and apply to affected leaves and buds. Mid afternoon on a cloudy day iof the bes ttime to apply it.