Diseases and pests have always been one of the greatest threats facing winegrowers. Fungal diseases, on the other hand, can appear out of nowhere and irreparably affect the production of professionals. The downy mildew epidemic, for example, that hit Greece in 1900, resulted in the destruction of 2/3 of the country’s production. Since then, of course, a lot of water has flowed in the groove, so professionals today can successfully predict the occurrence of such diseases, successfully treating them.
Assisting them in these efforts is technology, which has undertaken to feed them with the data that will make their lives easier – and their productions more efficient. Vines are one of the most sensitive crops in terms of weather conditions (rain, humidity, temperature): any deviation from the “acceptable” levels can affect the quality of the fruit and the size of the crop and as we all know “it is better to prevent or cure” – the approach of Hippocrates finds excellent application in viticulture as well.
Early prediction of diseases ensures not only better quality but also more economical production. According to the study by Kabir P. Tumber, Julian M. Alston and Kate B. Fuller, Pierce disease, one of the most difficult to treat androbacteriums, costs vineyards in California alone over $100 million. annually, 56% of which concerns lost production and replacement of infected roots. By avoiding unpleasant surprises, professionals have the opportunity to plan their expenses more effectively, keeping costs low (especially since there is no need to treat an illness urgently).
Oenolytics’ integrated solution contributes greatly to the prediction of diseases in viticulture, saving producers from the unwanted use of herbicides and additional fertilizers. Thanks to Oenolytics, professionals have a full range of data with the help of which they can assess any threats to their vines and nip them in the bud, before they can create bigger problems for their vines.
