Microbial biocontrol against pest control
The effectiveness, measured
Time horizon: 1 season
Why it works
Products like Bacillus thuringiensis control grapevine-moth larvae selectively, sparing beneficials.
What to measure for this pairing
Why this problem matters
The main pests — the grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana) and leafhoppers — are managed organically without synthetic insecticides. The moth opens wounds that are an entry point for botrytis, tying pest control to disease control.
The tools are pheromone mating disruption, conservation of beneficials (predators and parasitoids) and authorised products such as Bacillus thuringiensis. Trap monitoring and action thresholds avoid needless interventions.
Problem indicators
Certification & rules: Mating disruption and biocontrol are pillars of integrated production and organic status.
How to apply the means
- 1Choose the agent suited to the target (e.g. Aureobasidium for botrytis).
- 2Apply preventively, respecting viability conditions.
- 3Integrate into a programme with copper, sulfur and prevention.
- 4Log as an authorised input in the notebook.
Frequently asked
Does biocontrol replace copper and sulfur?
Rarely in full. It is most effective as part of an integrated programme, reducing dependence but not eliminating contact means in high-pressure years.
Are the products sensitive to conditions?
Yes — being living organisms, temperature, UV radiation and tank-mix compatibility affect viability. Following the guidance is essential.
Same means, other problems
Same problem, other means — Pests
How GrapeFlow helps
The proof organic certification demands — logged by plot and date.
Phytosanitary register with authorised inputs
Every treatment logged with product, rate and active substance, flagging what is allowed under organic rules — an audit-ready history.
Electronic field notebook
All operations — weeding, green manure, biocontrol — logged by plot and date, ready for organic certification.
Downy & powdery mildew risk models
Per-plot disease risk from local weather, to treat at the right moment and spend less copper and sulfur.