Onion Growers,
We have confirmed Downy Mildew of onion in the area. Thanks to the keen eyes of our growers, and fast confirmation from our county agents (Jason Edenfield and Derrick Bowen), Downy Mildew of Onion has been positively confirmed in our area. Please protect your crop as necessary.
Just as a reminder, these are the products we are recommending for downy control:
Product Efficacy Rating
Omega 500 moderate
*Note about Omega: We believe Omega has better “curative” activity, and would be the better option if you have downy present in your fields. The Omega 500 label also specifically says “DO NOT use an adjuvant with Omega 500F on this crop.”
Orondis Ultra moderate
*Note about Orondis Ultra: The label specifically states, “For ground or aerial applications, a spreading/penetrating type of adjuvant such as a non-ionic surfactant, organosilicone, or blend must be added at labeled agricultural use rates
Bravo moderate to low
Zampro moderate to low
Phosphites low (but can help)
What does this mean for our crop?
We still have a ways to go on some onions. Onions that are more than 10 days from digging should take precedence for treatment. If onions are within a week or two of digging, a decision to treat is a judgement call that you will have to make on a case by case basis.The weather conditions over the next few days are calling for highs in the 80’s, with no rain forecasted until next week (unless you get some rain today). This type of weather is typically not as favorable for downy mildew spread, but please don’t let this stop you from protecting your crop. We still have a long way to go on many onions, and it can definitely continue to spread. Pictures of the infected plants from this morning are included.