Fungicide Resistance Management Begins With Proactive Planning and Good Scouting
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An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While that old proverb could be prophetic when it comes to many things, it should be taken to heart by vineyard growers in their efforts to preserve viable fungicides and keep them from becoming resistant.
Long before the growing season begins, growers should be proactive and have a well-planned fungicide program in place so it can be strategically implemented and targeted toward diseases like powdery mildew and others throughout the year.
The Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) explains fungicide resistance as an acquired reduction in sensitivity of fungi to specific fungicides. Any fungicide program should start with regular scouting to look for signs of disease. Selecting the right fungicides with the correct FRAC groups will help lead the operation to a much better return on investment at harvest.
“Because of the pervasiveness of fungicide resistance, today’s chemistries are limited,” says Daniel Abruzzini, western marketing manager, Corteva Agriscience. “Because of the pervasiveness of fungicide resistance, today’s chemistries are limited,” says Daniel Abruzzini, western marketing manager, Corteva Agriscience. “Powdery mildew and botrytis in grapes are two diseases than can spread if not recognized early and controlled.”
Abruzzini shares these tips with growers to help them stay ahead of fungicide resistance in their vineyard:
- Design a fungicide resistance management program where you start off with a fungicide that targets the diseases that are impacting your vineyard.
- Rotate chemistry options throughout the season.
- Talk to other growers near your operation and ask about diseases they may be addressing.
- Take a complete program approach. Look back at previous years to see what diseases were dealt with before the current season gets into full swing.
- Choose the correct FRAC groups based on the disease(s) identified and apply them preventatively, or prior to infection. Fungicides applied after the infection, or curatively, are usually less effective and lead to fungicide resistance development.
When applying fungicides, use the recommended label rates and ensure adequate coverage. Consider selecting varieties that provide resistance to common diseases. Protecting grapes starts with being informed, making proactive strategies, and then implementing them in a timely manner to stay ahead of diseases. Visit Corteva.us to learn more.
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