ISHS Acta Horticulturae 724: IX International Symposium on the Processing Tomato
EVALUATION OF THE TOM-CAST MODEL FOR PREDICTION OF EARLY BLIGHT, SEPTORIA LEAF SPOT AND ANTHRACNOSE FRUIT ROT IN PROCESSING TOMATOES IN SOUTH-EASTERN AUSTRALIA |
| Authors: | E.J. Minchinton, M. Warren, A. Watson, G. Hepworth A., L. Tesoriero |
| Keywords: | Tom-Cast, processing tomatoes, Australia |
| Abstract:
The Tom-Cast disease forecasting model, based on leaf wetness and temperature, predicted that in a dry season fungicide sprays were unnecessary for control of early blight, Septoria leaf spot and anthracnose fruit rot, in processing tomato crops. Up to 9 applications of fungicide are made per season to Australian processing tomato crops, with most growers applying 3 to 4 sprays. The model was evaluated in crops at three locations over a two-year period by comparison with the growers’ normal spray application practices. The adoption of the Tom-Cast model by processing tomato growers could save the Australian processing tomato industry an estimated $150,000 to $200,000 a year in fungicide costs. | |
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