Shrub Hedge Killed by Wasp Spray? Powdery Mildew Misdiagnosis

White mold on shrub hedge with wasps. Sprayed wasp killer; hedge died and spreading to neighbor 5 ft away. Is it contagious? Remove roots?

Reality Check

"White mold" was likely powdery mildew (fungal, cosmetic). Wasp spray (insecticide) doesn't kill fungi. Hedge death probably from spray phytotoxicity or pre-existing stress.

Powdery Mildew Facts

• Superficial white/gray powder on leaves/stems.
• Rarely fatal; mainly aesthetic.
• Control: fungicides (Bayleton, Funginex, etc.) at first sign.

Action

• Cut dead hedge at ground level.
• Fungus won't spread from dead wood.
• No need to dig roots unless replanting.
• Treat remaining hedge with fungicide if mildew appears.