The efficacy of essential oils against Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) G. Winter and Podosphaera leucotricha (Ellis & Everh.) E. S. Salmon in vivo

Abstract

Though profitable crop production can be more simply achieved by using synthetic pesticides, the research of alternative plant protection solutions is necessary. The effect of the volatile oils of cinnamon, thyme, and a copper ingredient fertilizer were tested for their activity against apple scab and powdery mildew in apple orchards in 2014 and 2017. Oils applied alone or in combination were effective against apple scab in 2014 and in 2017 and against powdery mildew on leaves in 2017. The copper ingredient fertilizer product improved the efficacy of the oils. The results of these trials show that the tested volatile oils are suitable candidates for further research and for the development of organic fungicides against the diseases of apple.

Keywords

• apple scab
• powdery mildew
• thyme
• cinnamon