Squashing powdery mildew

Japan and other Asian countries are high-value export markets for New Zealand growers of buttercup squash, where only perfectly formed squash are accepted.

That’s why controlling diseases like powdery mildew is so important.

Ryan Pierce, UPL NZ Ltd Regional Sales Manager Lower North Island, says powdery mildew is caused by the pathogens Sphaerotheca fuliginea and Erysiphe cichoracearum. 

“Powdery mildew can cause severe damage to the typically large canopy of leaves, meaning the squash themselves are left vulnerable to sun damage,” says Ryan. “The plants are potentially starved of their photosynthetic abilities, impacting yields and quality.”

The systemic protectant fungicide Kusabi® gives effective powdery mildew control when used preventatively. Its active ingredient, pyriofenone (Group 50), works by inhibiting lesion formation, mycelium growth and sporulation, halting powdery mildew infection. To date, there is no known resistance in New Zealand to pyriofenone.

“It’s a product with excellent preventative activity, stopping powdery mildew at the onset of infection. Using a strong translaminar action, Kusabi moves through the plant resulting in distribution within the leaf surface and from one side of the leaf to the other.

“Another of Kusabi’s strengths is its superior vapour activity, which ensures the active reaches all areas which could be infected by powdery mildew and where the plant most needs protection.

“Combined with Kusabi’s pre-harvest interval of just one day, it offers great flexibility for use prior to harvest.”

Kusabi application tips & reminders:

• Kusabi is compatible with adjuvants such as Du-Wett® superspreader. 
• Do not exceed three applications of Kusabi in one season.

Ask your local Fruitfed Supplies Representative for more details about Kusabi fungicide.

ACVM registration number: Kusabi® #P009488. Read registered label before use.