Lower Stem Problems???

[Louis]

[SIZE=7]Hi everyone....was looking over my plants this morning and notice the lower portion looked different from the upper portion of the plant. I am hoping it's nothing to serious. Here is some pics, thanks for any feedback, it's appreciated.[/SIZE]

 

[jandre2k3]

What are we looking at here, I know it's the stalk of the plant, but what in particular is your question about? The Woody part? The dust on the stems? It could be a fungus, if that's it, but are your plants further up showing signs of decline? If it worries you, wash it off with some neem oil mixed as per the directions.