Valent’s presidio fungicide registered for drip irrigation

Valent U.S.A. Corporation has received EPA registration for use of Presidio Fungicide in drip irrigation on cucurbits and fruiting vegetables. The fungicide is currently registered for foliar use in most states. California registration is expected this fall; New York registration is pending.

This new registered use gives growers the ability to effectively prevent or control downy mildew and Phytophthora blight (caused by P. capsici) even earlier in the season. Using Presidio through drip irrigation provides another method of application that will protect cucurbits and fruiting vegetables.

"This is a totally new application method for Presidio that brings a new class of chemistry into the early-season disease prevention market," said Rick Kraus, Valent brand manager. "Presidio is highly active on fungicide-resistant pathogens, giving growers a powerful tool to incorporate into their disease management programs."

The new drip irrigation application also gives growers better control of soil-borne diseases, because Presidio translocates through the plant for complete protection.

"By putting Presidio in drip irrigation, you put it right where it needs to be for soil-borne diseases that affect the root and the crown," said Gerald Holmes, Valent product development manager. "Because Presidio has great systemic activity, it can translocate through the plant-protecting the roots and aboveground plant parts as well."

Unlike other fungicide products, Presidio has no known tank mix limitations with other fungicides or insecticides. Presidio can also be applied via sprinkler or used as a foliar treatment.

"With a strong variety of application options, a different class of chemistry and a novel mode of action, Presidio gives growers a proven return on their investments," said Kraus.