CropsProtection methods
The protection methods to be implemented to control rots on berries associated with Penicillium spp. are well known to winegrowers since they are mostly those recommended for controlling gray rot caused by Botrytis cinerea . We therefore advise you to apply them, and in particular:
- Improve the ventilation of the vegetation as much as possible in order to reduce its humidity (trellising well, removing leaves , thinning the bunches, controlling vigor).
- Avoid conditions of persistent humidity on the canopy and bunches around and during the harvest period.
- Harvest early if possible, before the berries are overripe.
- To fear the problems of musty-earthy taste especially on the grape varieties: cabernet sauvignon, chenin, gamay, pinot noir and semillon in all the French wine regions, except Languedoc-Roussillon. Consult the opinions of the GMT risk monitoring networks. The anti-Botrytis protection must imperatively involve two treatments at the fall of the floral caps, then beginning of veraison or closure of the bunch depending on the regions. No alternative product (SDP, biological auxiliaries, etc.) can control GMTs for the moment. Carry out a meticulous sorting at the time of the harvest, do not introduce rotten grapes into the cellars. Carry out corrective measures in the cellar and oenological treatments which will probably not be without consequences on the quality of the wines (consult your oenologist).
- Control the development of other pests in the cluster (phytophagous insects that produce honeydew - scale insects, pruinose leafhoppers; bunch worms; powdery mildew, etc.); they can cause damage to berries and thus promote parasitism by rotting agents.