Broad-spectrum fungicide use is on the rise, posing serious risks to biodiversity in vineyards as fungicides kill both target and non-target fungi, and destroy some beneficial species or strains. The grape industry also faces the challenges of fungicides losing their efficacy or being phased out in the near future, or the pathogens developing resistance. In regions such as Marlborough, where powdery mildew is endemic, growers constantly struggle to keep their vineyards free of the disease.

The UV light in vineyards to reduce fungicide dependence project, led by Bragato Research Institute in partnership with A Lighter Touch, aims to provide another control option for all New Zealand Winegrowers members facing a powdery mildew problem. Internationally, UV-C light technology has shown to be a cost effective and environmentally friendlier option to control powdery mildew and this project aims to demonstrate these benefits in New Zealand vineyards.

Resources

Article: UV light in vineyards to reduce fungicide dependence

Project summary

Researchers: Dr Paul Epee, Chris Ireland, Bragato Research Institute

Years: 2024-2026

Funding: Bragato Research Institute, A Lighter Touch (Whitehaven, Agri-automation in-kind)

View all the reports on the NZW Research Library NZW login required