Seed treatments in control of common bunt in ecological agriculture

Summary in the original language of the document

In the absence of pesticides, common bunt (Tilletia tritici) is one of the most potent plant diseases in wheat production.
6 years field trials with seed treatments shows that common bunt can be controlled within the standards of IFOAM. An integrated strategy including resistant varieties or physical cleaning in combination with seed treatment with acetic acid or mustard flour are the cheapest measures, but the traditional hot water treatments and milk powder coating can be used as well. In future, biological control with bacteria and fungi will be commercial available and new technology in the heat treatment can make this treatment competitive.