Use of the Biopesticide BmJ in the Contol of Early Blight in Potatoes

NCAP has partnered with Montana Microbial Products to conduct commercial scale demonstrations with growers of the biopesticide BmJ, in control of early blight. Microbial control of early blight is a key element in a strategy to develop a complete system of biological and cultural Pest Management Conservation System (IPM) in potatoes. Early blight of potato (caused by Alternaria solani) is a chronic problem in most potato producing regions in North America. Crop yield can be reduced by as much as 15% with early blight. Early blight is currently managed by foliar applications of multiple fungicides including the strobilurin class of fungicides in rotation with older chemistries. The strobilurin fungicides are very effective in managing early blight, but are at high risk for resistance development. Early blight is also a significant problem in the small but growing organic potato production. Organic growers have few alternatives, using primarily copper with limited success. The project will demonstrate early blight control using BmJ as a stand alone product and in combination programs with strobilurin fungicides. The program will include cooperators who now use green manure programs, selected organic growers and key conventional growers. Field demonstrations and outreach will help potato producers become familiar with BmJ as part of an IPM program. The environmental benefit will be determined by recording the reduction in fungicide use.