Effective Measures to Prevent Powdery Mildew in Grapes

Grape cultivation can be traced back to 8000 years ago near the east. The fruit grows in clusters and belongs to the species of a flowering plant known as Vitis. Due to the natural presence of Yeast on the grape’s skin, it can be used in the production of alcoholic drinks. Grapes are consumed as fresh fruits all over the world because of their high nutrient and low calorific value. They also play a major role in the processing of wines, raisins, jellies, jams, etc. In recent years, farmers from several countries got engaged in the cultivation of grape crops due to their high monetary benefits than other crops. According to the latest stats, China leads the world in grape production followed by India, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Brazil. It is believed that the consumption of grapes provides several health benefits such as improving blood pressure, diabetes, certain fungal infections, etc.

Climatic Conditions

Grapes thrive well in the Mediterranean climate, however, at the time of the fruiting period, a hot and dry climate is required. The vegetative growth of the fruit takes place in constant weather conditions. In addition, adequate sunlight makes the grapevines health and fruits more qualitative. The optimum temperature for plant growth should be in the range of 15-40° C. Grape plants can sustain in winters but are vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

Powdery Mildew (Uncinula necator):

Powdery Mildew in grapes is one of the major destructive fungal diseases for grapevines across the world. The humid and moist weather favours the disease, additionally, shade or diffused light doubles its impact on plant growth. Powdery mildew affects all the green tissues of the grapevine.

Symptoms

A coating of dusty white-gray or greenish-white occurs on the leaf surfaces. At the time of infection, petioles, cluster stems, and green shoots generally appear stunted or deformed. The infection caused by powdery mildew severely hit all the stages of plant development. The epidermis of young infected berries gets cracked and ends in drying or rotting the fruit whereas a netlike pattern develops on the surface of old infected berries.

Crop Loss

India exports a significant amount of its domestic grape production. Due to the high demand for these berries in various countries of the world, we cannot compromise on quality. However, the grape crop is susceptible to several diseases that decline the annual yield extensively. Furthermore, unpredictable weather conditions increase the impact of infections. Under Indian climatic conditions, these diseases spread even at swift paces. Early detection of diseases and judicious use of crop protection solutions is the only way to mitigate the rate of infections in plants.

Solution

Dhanuka Agritech Limited has introduced an effective fungicide ‘Nissodium’ that controls severe fungal disease on various plant crops. Nissodium has been manufactured with the latest formulation of 5% EW (emulsion in water) that regulates the disease spread and lessens the inoculum.

Mode of Action & Dose

Nissodium has 5 action formula and is produced with unique Japanese technology that works on excellent preventive and curative action. In dense canopies, the translaminar and vapour action reduce the effect of powdery mildew. Nissodium is environment-friendly and does not leave a phytotoxic effect on most of the crops at 200 ml per acre.