Spray application to counter tomato leaf mould

The equipment and techniques required to implement effective chemical control of the disease.

There is a wide variety of spray equipment, from manual Ripa sprayers to fully automatic, robotic systems, available to tackle tomato leaf mould.

Nozzle types

Spray volumes of up to 3,000 L/ha are used and flat-fan nozzle types should be first choice to provide good cover, because hollow-cone spray tips provide less crop penetration.

Spraying the plants

The disease is generally only found on the lower leaves and standard practice is to angle nozzles upwards, towards the infection point located mainly on the underside of leaves.

Many growers choose to target the new growth at the top of the plant. However, it is better to treat the whole plant if good coverage can be achieved. This can lead to suppression of spores on infected lower leaves while still protecting the new growth at the top of the plant.

Maintenance

Remember to check equipment – particularly the angle of hollow-cone nozzles – and the method of application to ensure the most effective coverage possible.

If you would like to order a hard copy of the Tomato leaf mould best practice guide, please contact:

Email: publications@ahdb.org.uk

Telephone: 0247 799 0069

Tomato leaf mould web pages originally authored by Sarah Maybe and Dave Kaye (RSK ADAS).

Biocidal and plant protection products must only be used in accordance with the authorised conditions of use. Regular changes occur in the authorisation status of biocides and plant protection products. For the most up to date information, please check with your professional supplier, BASIS registered adviser or the Chemical Regulation Division (CRD) of HSE (https://www.hse.gov.uk/crd/) before use.

While the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board seeks to ensure that the information outlined below is accurate at the time of publishing, no warranty is given in respect thereof and, to the maximum extent permitted by law the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board accepts no liability for loss, damage or injury howsoever caused (including that caused by negligence) or suffered directly or indirectly in relation to information and opinions contained in or omitted from this information.