AgroPages-UK approved Certis’ fungicide Takumi SC on pumpkins-Agricultural news

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Certis’ fungicide product, Takumi SC, (cyflufenamid), has been granted an ‘Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use’ (EAMU) in UK to allow applications to be made on pumpkins and winter squash.

Vivian Powell, Crop Protection Senior Scientist at Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) explains why this is an important development for the speciality crops sector.

“Previously, pumpkins were the only cucurbit not included under the product label for Takumi SC, or subsequent EAMUs. And with an estimated 10 million pumpkins grown in the UK every year, due partly to the growing popularity of Halloween but also as a result of growing consumer demand for local and seasonal produce, it’s become a key crop for some growers.”

“Powdery mildew is a big problem in pumpkins. It’s an aggressive pathogen and can seriously affect the leaf quality and development of the crop,” she explains.

“The disease can also occur at any time during the season, and as a result can cause significant financial losses if not identified and controlled early.”

“Pumpkins have a huge market in the UK, and are of high value to the industry but visible damage can render them unsaleable. Therefore, EAMU’s are of critical importance to ensure that there are product options to protect speciality crops.”

“EAMU’s are vital for UK growers to continue to produce pumpkins and winter squash to meet demand, while protecting against disease.”

Takumi SC has a one day harvest interval, providing flexibility for growers. The EAMU approval states that for use of Takumi SC on pumpkin crops, the maximum individual dose is 150 ml/Ha. Growers can make a maximum of two applications per crop, per year, providing a seven-day interval is left between applications.