May I describe my situation and ask for your assistance in understanding more about mildew remediation using essential oils in diffusers?

My basement is an area that tends toward cool/damp.

I have a garden here and plants are contending with powdery white mildew that appears and spreads, if it can, to other plants.

It starts in small white patches on leaves and stems. Left unchecked, it spreads to other areas of the plant and will be carried on the wind (from an oscillating fan) to other plants in the garden.

I have used various organic sprays for the delicate plant surfaces (containing garlic oil and baking soda and other ingredients). These sprays do help but the mildew persists. They do not correct the source of the problem.

I run a dehumidifier, oscillating fan(s) and have a strong exhaust fan. This exhaust fan is very strong and has actually lowered relative humidity upstairs, which is very helpful. This exhaust fan pulls stale air from the garden area through ducting to outdoors, via a nearby chimney. The humidity levels (with an “Accurite” brand gauge) are around 48%-50%. Good levels, to be sure, for a basement.

So I’ve created a favorable environment (warm and dry) to not foster mildew (or mold) in the basement.

I. My Q: Would cold-air diffusion in the downstairs air eventually stop the creation of mildew?

II. If so, what individual oils (that I can mix myself) would correct the source of the mildew problem?

(Your article metions the Biblical oils such as cassia; isn’t this cinnamon? As a massage therapist, I have cinnamon in great supply, other oils as well.)

If essential oils can add extra oomph to protect the plants’ air quality against mildew, this would be a blessing.
I’d love to stop mildew before it can even start.

If you have ideas about this I’d gratefully listen.

Thank you,
Stephen Benton