Kupferersatz/-minimierung im ökologischen Weinbau – erste Ergebnisse aus dem laufenden BÖL-Verbundprojekt

Summary

The project examines the control of downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) in organic viticulture based on copper replacement and copper reduction strategies, respectively. The replacement agents or the new copper formulations with minimised copper dose will be integrated into the “organic standard” strategy, which additionally aims at the control of other pests and diseases. The following agents were tested: plant strengtheners, plant extracts and stone meals. Despite unclear situations regarding commercialisation and registration purposes, respectively, bacterial antagonists and phosphoric acid were also included. After a screening on potted vines, agents were tested in the test-vineyards of six different research stations for viticulture and plant protection. The last step should be the application on four pilot sites under practical conditions. Based on the results of the first growing period (2004), agents and strategies could be selected for large scale and practical use by organic vinegrowers. Algae products and new copper formulations have been proven to be highly effective against P. viticola in the greenhouse as well as in the field.