More crops in France to benefit from ASPERELLO® T34 Biocontrol®
In France, ANSES has granted new uses for the biofungicide ASPERELLO® T34 Biocontrol® to cover an array of protected crops, including cucumbers grown under protection, as well as selected field-grown crops.
“The natural organism, Trichoderma asperellum strain T34, is already used preventively by many growers to rapidly colonise crop roots - limiting space and nutrients for harmful soil fungi,” says Paul Tremellat, Biobest France Product Manager for micro-organisms. “With multiple modes of action, it forms a natural barrier against pathogens - while simultaneously promoting healthy root growth and associated plant growth. As such, this biofungicide offers welcome protection against major root diseases like Fusarium and Pythium.”
For several years, French and European growers have achieved excellent results using ASPERELLO®. However, until now, in France the product was only approved for use in tomato, pepper, aubergine and ornamentals grown in greenhouses.
“The new ASPERELLO® label makes it possible to meet much broader needs,” Paul explains.
“French protected-cucumber growers have keenly anticipated using it for the prevention of Pythium. This threatening fungus can lead to heavy yield losses, especially in the second crop cycle. With the label extension, regular ASPERELLO® T34 Biocontrol® applications can now be made via the irrigation system, significantly reducing impact.”
Field-grown crops – which can face high losses due to root diseases – will also benefit. ASPERELLO® T34 Biocontrol® is now registered for use in France for field-grown lettuce, lamb's lettuce, chicory, onions, beetroot, hemp, cabbage, melons, ornamental crops, grass, beans and soft fruits.
Meanwhile, in greenhouse-grown crops, it now also has been approved for courgettes, melons, watermelons, pumpkins, squash, fennel, celery, leafy cabbage, raspberries, currants, herbs and PPAMC (non-food aromatic, medicinal and for perfume plants).
“Feedback from growers of major crops throughout Europe and North America have shown ASPERELLO® outperforms many other organic fungicides,” says Paul. “Combating challenging root diseases while respecting the environment, it is becoming an indispensable tool systematically integrated in biocontrol programmes in an array of crops.”