THESIS & RESEARCHES
Environmentally friendly methods and tools for disease control in table grapes
Year:
2023
Author:
Chalbaoui Eya
Powdery mildew, downy mildew, gray mold and thrips are among the main threats affecting vine (Vitis vinifera L.) growing and can seriously limit the production and quality of table grapes in Apulia region. The use of chemicals has always ensured effective control, but the EU legislation is now setting limits to these active ingredients due to their negative impact. The growing interest of companies in the manufacture of GRAS products and the use of predictive models are paving the way for new alternatives to chemicals that are able to optimize environmentally sustainable control strategies. In this study, a controlled trial was conducted using a spraying system combined with hydrogen peroxide in a table grape vineyard in the area of Acquaviva delle Fonti (Bari). Results were compared with a trial where the farmer applied IPM treatments following the regional guidelines. The crop cycle was studied from February to September; weather forecast and infection warnings were obtained via a decision support system while visual inspections were made on a regular basis. Several elements were evaluated: presence of the inoculum/insects, economic and agronomic sustainability, and ripeness degree. All the information gathered demonstrated the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide combined with the micro 28 spraying system and its ability to reduce treatment costs and time, and to control the diseases in this study and beyond. However, further research is needed to validate the findings through more trials and confirm that this is a viable alternative for disease control
Supervisor:
F. Valentini and P. Albanese
Collaboration:
CIHEAM