Wageningen University: A climate model for mildew control

The spores of powdery mildew like moist conditions. They germinate best at a relative humidity (RH) of 80%. The mycelium of powdery mildew actually thrives at a lower RH. This makes the strawberry an excellent host for the pathogen. A strawberry needs a big difference between day and night temperatures to grow. This difference makes a big difference in RH.

Best climate for fungus
In 2020, a study started into the best climate strategy for strawberries to prevent powdery mildew. The research focuses on the boundary layer between the strawberry leaves and the fruit. This is the place where an infestation with powdery mildew begins. The study examines three varieties: these varieties vary in susceptibility to the fungus.

For the research, sensors and measuring boxes were placed in the WUR greenhouse in Bleiswijk: a few meters above the crop, in the crop and at the boundary layer. In addition, the crop is scouted weekly for powdery mildew. This makes it known in which climate the fungus has the greatest chance of spreading.

New cultivation strategy
In a follow-up study, plants were infected in climate chambers with different climatic conditions obtained from greenhouse data. Development of the fungus is followed from germination to sporulation. The ultimate goal is to develop a model for a cultivation strategy. With this model, growers can determine the best strategy to prevent powdery mildew and save energy based on the conditions in their cultivation. The first version of this model is expected to be delivered at the end of 2021.