Improving hygiene at a strawberry farm

Horticulture Poland
One of the previous growing seasons was a harsh one for a strawberry grower located in Masovian Voivodeship (Poland).

One of the previous growing seasons was a harsh one for a strawberry grower located in Masovian Voivodeship (Poland). After severe weather conditions causing a partial flooding of the plantation, the grower noticed production loss and quality issues due to increased occurrence of grey mold (Botrytis cinerea) in the strawberry cultivation.

The challenge

The harsh weather conditions and flooding at the company had resulted in an increased occurrence of grey mold (Botrytis cinerea), especially in the species Rumba and Florencja.

Grey mold is caused by Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that can be recognised by the fluffy grey mold that will appear on the strawberries. The fungus is necrotrophic and thus will secrete substances that will kill the plant cells. The content of these dead plant cells will be used as food for the fungus. Within a few days, new spores will be formed at the site of infection. The germination of Botrytis cinerea spores is promoted by prolonged humid conditions and mild temperatures. Frequent rainfall or dew will keep the berries wet for longer periods of time favouring germination of the spores. Also damage to the fruit by for example a storm will make it easier for the spores to enter the plant.

Due to the flooding, the irrigation water was of low quality and needed to be treated in order to prevent diseases from spreading.

Our solution

It was necessary to limit the spread of pathogens in the rest of the season, increase the general hygiene again at the plantation and disinfect the water given to the strawberry plants. The grower started with the use of Huwa-San in the irrigation system in May. A step-by-step plan consisting out of 3 parts was developed for the grower:

  1. Huwa-San TR-50 application, at the beginning of flowering
  2. Huwa-San TR-50 application, at full flowering stage
  3. Following water treatments from flowering till harvest with an interval of 5 to 7 days.

At these growing stages it was crucial to maintain an optimal hygiene in the water system, as the plants are more susceptible for diseases in these periods. Also careful removal of infected plant parts was advised.

 

The results

The grower noticed that the health of the plant material improved after treating the water system with Huwa-San TR-50. This lead to enhanced quality of the strawberries, which in turn lead to an increase in yield.

  • Improved health of the plants
  • Improved quality of the harvestable product
  • Environmentally friendly product that leaves no residu
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Used products

Huwa-San TR-50 is a registered biocide. Use biocides safely. Before use, read the label and product information.

Biocides are governed by stringent regulatory frameworks, the particulars of which may differ across nations. In this instance, the application adheres entirely to the regulations of the respective country but may not necessarily comply with those of others. It is advisable to consult our in-house experts for guidance on particular applications.

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