Field Validation of PBcast in Timing Fungicide Sprays to Control Phytophthora Blight of Chili Pepper

Abstract

Field validation of PBcast, an infection risk model for Phytophthora blight of pepper, was conducted through a designed field experiment in 2012 and 2013. Conduciveness of weather conditions at 26 locations in Korea in 2014-2017 was also evaluated using PBcast. The PBcast estimated daily infection risk (IR) of Phytophthora capsici based on weather and soil texture data. In the designed filed experiment, four treatments including routine sprays at 7-day intervals (RTN7), forecast-based sprays when IR reached 200 (IR200) and 224 (IR224), and no spray (CTRL) were compared in terms of disease incidence and number of sprays recommended for disease control. In 2012, IR had reached over 200 twice, but never reached 224. In 2013, IR had reached over 200 three times and once higher than 224. The RTN7 plots were sprayed 17 and 18 times in 2012 and 2013, respectively. Weather conditions throughout the country were generally conducive for Phytophthora blight and 3-4 times of fungicide sprays would have been reduced if the PBcast forecast information was adopted in the decision-making for fungicide sprays. In conclusion, the PBcast forecast would be useful to reduce fungicide applications without losing the disease control efficacy to protect pepper crop from Phytophthora blight.