The launch of Problad in Morocco: A game-changer for Botrytis control

Impact of Botrytis cinerea on Agricultural Production in Morocco

In Morocco, agriculture plays a vital role in the economy, with crops like tomatoes and berries being key contributors. However, farmers face significant challenges due to fungal diseases, particularly Botrytis cinerea, commonly known as grey mold. This destructive pathogen causes substantial yield losses and a decline in fruit quality, threatening the livelihoods of growers and the profitability of the sector.

Moroccan agricultural practices, including greenhouse environments and humid conditions, often create an ideal setting for the development and rapid spread of Botrytis, making effective control a pressing need.

Problad: An Innovative and Sustainable Solution for Botrytis Control

To address this challenge, Certis Belchim introduces Problad, a biocontrol fungicide with a broad-spectrum mode of action, developed to offer farmers a powerful yet environmentally respectful solution. The innovation behind Problad lies in its active ingredient, BLAD, a natural molecule derived from white lupin, which disrupts the cellular and metabolic processes of Botrytis, ensuring effective elimination.

Problad’s excellence has already been recognized internationally, earning the gold medal award in the ″Plant Health – Soils and Crop Supports″ category at the SIVAL 2024 trade fair in France. This prestigious award showcases Problad as a breakthrough in sustainable crop protection and highlighting its innovation.

How Problad Works: Dual Action for Superior Control

Problad’s effectiveness is rooted in its dual action mechanism:

• Targeted Penetration: BLAD penetrates the cell wall of the Botrytis fungus, attacking it directly at its source.

• Metabolic Imbalance: By disrupting the fungal cell’s balance, Problad blocks its vital functions, stopping growth and spread.

This innovative mode of action makes Problad a highly effective solution for preventing and curing Botrytis outbreaks. It is also the first registered biocontrol solution for Botrytis in Morocco, reflecting its innovative approach.

Problad in Action: Field Trial Success on Tomatoes and Berries

Extensive field trials on tomatoes in Morocco have demonstrated Problad’s outstanding effectiveness, both as a preventative and curative measure. Tomato crops treated with Problad showed reduced Botrytis damage and higher-quality harvests. Similarly, strawberry, blueberry and raspberry crops benefited from improved disease control, reducing losses and protecting farmers’ yields.

Key Benefits of Problad

1. Application Flexibility:

   Problad leaves no residues and requires no pre-harvest interval, allowing farmers to apply it up to harvest time. This feature meets the strict residue regulations of international markets, making Moroccan exports more competitive.

2. Environmentally Friendly:

   As a biocontrol product, Problad is compatible with integrated production programs and respects beneficial fauna, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides. It aligns with global trends favoring more environmentally conscious farming.

3. Sustainability and Organic Compatibility:

   Problad is fully compatible with organic farming, giving growers in Morocco access to a natural, modern solution without compromising yield or quality.

With its proven track record in effectiveness and sustainability, Problad is poised to make a significant impact on Moroccan agriculture.

Certis Belchim: A Global Player Supporting Local Agriculture

Certis Belchim’s mission is to provide the best possible solutions tailored to the specific needs of diverse growers and crops worldwide. From small-scale farmers to large commercial operations, the company recognizes that no two growers face the same challenges.

By integrating innovative technologies, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of local agricultural conditions, Certis Belchim develops targeted solutions that deliver both effective results and sustainable practices. The launch of Problad in Morocco highlights this commitment, offering Moroccan farmers a tailored tool to address Botrytis threats while ensuring environmental responsibility and long-term agricultural success.