The real secret to fungicide resistance management
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Resistance to pesticides is a serious, and growing problem. Worldwide, more than 600 species of pests have developed some level of pesticide resistance.1
Over time, some fungicides have gradually lost their effectiveness as disease organisms develop resistance – a significant decrease in sensitivity to a pesticide, which reduces the field performance of these fungicides. If resistance to a particular fungicide or chemical group evolves, these products can no longer be effective and limit options available for effective pest management.
The real secret to managing fungicide resistance requires a multi strategy approach to ensure plants are healthy and to promote the longevity of fungicides.
ManageResistanceNow.ca offers farmers a collection of resources and information to help understand, prevent and manage resistant diseases, insects and weeds. When it comes to managing fungicides, recommended best management practices include:
- Using agronomic practices that promote healthy plants
- Evaluating the need for disease control
- Strategically selecting fungicides
- Maximizing fungicide efficacy
Multiple effective modes of action
One of the best approaches to managing fungicide resistance is to select products that provide multiple effective modes of action. Farmers have come to rely on products with a single mode of action, and while it's important to incorporate different modes of action by mixture or by alternating products to maintain effectiveness and prevent fungicide resistance, selecting solutions that contain multiple effective modes of action take resistance management one step further.
For example, fungicides containing multiple effective modes of action, like Corteva’s new Viatude™ fungicide, provide a solution with 2 or more modes of action acting against white mould in soybeans, thereby reducing the risk of resistance.
Appropriate selection and application
Once the decision to apply a fungicide is made, carefully following the label for resistance management tips like water volume and coverage is essential. Inaccurate application rates can increase the risk of ineffective applications. If more than one application is required, alternate products or incorporate different modes of action by mixing to maintain effectiveness and prevent fungicide resistance.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Fungicides are one effective in-season pest management tool. Other integrated pest management strategies, like crop rotation, researching disease tolerant hybrids and varieties, and adjusting row spacing, can be added to your crop management system to reduce the general risk and spread of disease.
For more information on reducing your risk of fungicide resistance, visit manageresistancenow.ca.
1pesticidestewardship.org/resistance
