A practical trial of the biological fungicide Vintec in poinsettia (the variety Christmas Feelings) has been carried out at Dutch nursery Kwekerij Baas recently. In cooperation with grower Evert Wieten and technical specialist crop protection Patrick Smidt of supplier Van Iperen, the effectiveness of Vintec in controlling Botrytis was investigated. The results are promising and offer prospects for wider application.
What is Vintec?
Vintec is a biological fungicide based on the fungus Trichoderma atroviride strain SC1. This fungus colonizes the plant, where it competes with pathogenic fungi such as Botrytis cinerea. Vintec may be applied in organic cultivation and is exempt from maximum residue limits (MRL), making it a sustainable choice that fits well into integrated cultivation.
Aim and design of the trial
The aim of the trial was to screen the performance of Vintec in poinsettia under field conditions. Normally, conventional agents are applied several times during cultivation against Botrytis. In this trial, Vintec was applied weekly over an 8-week period in combination with a wiper.
Results
Intermediate assessment: The plants looked visually good. There were no visible differences between the treated objects and the reference.
Final assessment: The trial concluded with very positive results. The treatments with Vintec + effluent were as effective as the standard reference under the given conditions.
Evert Wieten, a grower at Kwekerij Baas, was enthusiastic about the results:
"It is always interesting to test new products, Vintec exceeded my expectations. I definitely see the potential for use poinsettia and in other crops."
Patrick Smidt, technical specialist in crop protection at Van Iperen, also emphasized the benefits of Vintec: "This trial shows that Vintec is not only effective, but also fits perfectly with the need for more sustainable solutions in ornamental cultivation. We will definitely look further into the possibilities in ornamental crops."
Sustainable future
This trial of Vintec confirms the effectiveness of this biological fungicide in practice. Due to its natural origin and lack of residue limits, the product fits into a more sustainable cultivation strategy.
For more information:
Certis Belchim BV
Tel: +31 (0)30 200 1200
[email protected]
www.certisbelchim.com