Powdery mildew is considered as a powerful fungal disease that can cause substantial yield loss. In addition, it can also affect fruit quality adversely. It is necessary for grape farmers to manage this disease who want to cultivate environment friendly grapes. This is the reason they are in search of natural fungicides that can prove to be an alternative to synthetic ones.
Sulphur WDG/WG 90% (Wettable Dispersible Granules/Water-Dispersible Granules) is a proven natural remedy that can effectively control powdery mildew in grapes.
What is Powdery Mildew
Powdery Mildew can be seen as a whitish or a grayish coloured coating on the grape fruit, stems and leaves of grape plant. It is caused by several species of fungi commonly known as Erysiphaceae. This disease is typically seen in warm, dry conditions where high humidity is present. If this disease is not controlled, it can minimize photosynthesis resulting into lesser grape growth and inferior fruits. All of this can subsequently lead to bad wine quality.
How Sulphur works
Sulphur is known for its fungicidal and fungistatic properties. When it is applied on the surfaces of grapes plants, it causes an oxidation reaction leading to formation of sulphur dioxide gas and multiple other sulphur compounds. Due to these compounds, fungal cell membrane gets disrupted and spore germination inhibition also takes place ceasing mycelial growth. Sulphur also creates a thin film on plant surface that forms a physical barrier against fungal spores. This is how establishment and spread of powdery mildew is controlled effectively.
Why Sulphur WDG/WG 90%
1. Natural : Sulphur is a naturally occurring element. Researchers and scientists consider it as a minimum threat for environment.
2. Organic: Grape farmers can use sulphur in their farming without any hesitation as it promotes beneficial organisms such as pollinators and attract pest enemies.
3. High Efficacy: Sulphur WDG/WG 90% contains good yield of active ingredient. This is why powdery mildew can be checked to a great extent. It works during the early stages of infection.
4. Eco-Friendly:
Powdery mildew disease is caused by fungi. It can be managed by use of sulphur without causing a threat to ecosystem. The residual activity of sulphur has a tendency to fight against subsequent infections.
5. Cost-Effective: In comparison to other fungicides, Sulphur can be considered as a relatively inexpensive option. This is why grape growers can use it without a second thought. The broad- spectrum activity of sulphur helps in management of other fungal diseases also.
6. Easy to apply: As WDG/WG formulations dissolve easily in water, it can be sprayed uniformly over the surface of plants. This also maximizes the coverage and makes the process of wine making easy for vineyard managers.
7. Wide Compatibility: One can integrate sulphur into existing spray programs. The reason is its compatibility with commonly used pesticides and fertilizers.
Things to remember during application
1. Timing: Sulphur works best when it is applied preventative, before the spread of powdery mildew infections. It should be applied regularly at an interval of 7 to 10 days in case of high disease penetration.
2. Coverage: This solution should be applied thoroughly on all plant surfaces including leaves, shoots, and clusters.
3. Concentration: It is recommended to follow label instructions carefully however the concentration of sulphur will depend on the specific formulation, crop stage, and extent of spread of disease.
4. Weather Conditions: Warm and humid conditions are best for application of sulphur. It is recommended to avoid use of sulphur in hot weather or when temperatures are more than 90°F (32°C) as it can result into phytotoxicity or plant injury.
Precautions
1. Compatibility: It is recommended to check the compatibility of sulphur with other fertilizers and pesticides before using them in the spray tank.
2. Phytotoxicity: One should be cautious while using sulphur under hot temperature and humid conditions. Before the wide use , conduct small-scale trials to know the tolerance of your grape varieties to sulphur.
3. Personal Protective Equipment: When you use sulphur, make sure to wear gloves, cover hands with long sleeves and protect your eyes with a proper spectacles.
Conclusion
Sulphur WDG/WG 90% is an effectively safe, natural and pocket friendly solution to control spread and onset of powdery mildew. Grape growers can reduce their reliability on synthetic fungicides by using this solution in their integrated pest management (IPM) program. This is how one can minimize environmental impact help sustain nature and enhance grape production.
The risk of phytotoxicity can be managed by keeping timing, weather conditions and concentration in mind. This extensive approach can lead to high quality of grapes needed for healthy vineyards and help sustain a bright future for grape growers and consumers.
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