Untersuchungen des BÖL-Verbundprojektes zur Kupferminimierung im ökologischen Weinbau

Summary

The development of sustainable and economically feasible strategies to get an effec-tual control of downy mildew on grapes (Plasmopara viticola) with less than 3 kg/(ha*a) of copper to avoid further environmental risks is the intention of this project. Due to harmful effects on the natural environment, copper applications are under considera-tion. Therefore, in this four-year-project first of all test products are screened under greenhouse conditions on potted vines. Thereafter the best test agents are studied in organically managed test vineyards. Finally the selected strategies are tested under practical conditions on organically managed vineyards. Beyond these examinations a close link between wineries and research is given by SME and consultant partners. The results indicate that plant extracts, finely ground stones and new copper formula-tions could probably serve as plant resistance improvers and plant protection prod-ucts, respectively, to prevent attacks of P. viticola. Moreover, it was possible to select prosperous agents and strategies for the growing period 2007. These were agents of the substance categories “new copper formulations”, “plant extracts” and “finely ground stones”. Regarding the results of three growing periods, the project will provide effective and economically feasible alternatives for copper applications in order to deliver sustainable approaches for P. viticola control in practise.