P-298 - Long-Term Evaluation of Biological Fungicides in New York Vineyards

Increased disease pressure from Erysiphe necator (powdery mildew), Plasmopara viticola (downy mildew), and Guignardia bidwellii (black rot) has been exacerbated by pathogen resistance to certain chemical classes and the loss of effective conventional fungicides due to environmental and human health concerns. In response, biofungicides have emerged as potential alternatives for sustainable disease management. These materials that are, derived from plant extracts, live biological agents, or are physical barriers, offer diverse modes of action and are increasingly incorporated into rotational spray programs. A five-year RCBD study conducted in research chardonnay, chancellor, niagara and tramminette vineyards at Cornell AgriTech evaluated the efficacy of biofungicides when integrated with conventional fungicides applied with an over-the-row sprayer at 10d intervals. Results indicate that biofungicides, when used in alternation with non-biological fungicides, provide effective disease control comparable to conventional programs. This study highlights the potential of biofungicides as viable components of integrated disease management strategies in commercial viticulture.