Sustainable disease control strategy for Rubus: the necessary leap forward.

The proposed objective of this process is to make a fundamental leap forward in comparison with the current control strategy for diseases in Rubus crops. The principle of integrated crop protection (IPM) will be developed in the cultivation of raspberries and blackberries, namely: first measure and interpret data and then if necessary apply the correct control strategy, in particular biological if possible and only chemical if necessary. The aim is also to deliver a quality product with less residue and to reinforce the image of 'fresh and healthy' in these crops. With the intended fundamental leap forward, the aim is to safeguard and even increase the competitiveness and growth opportunities of this fruit subsector, and to make a sustainable contribution to Rubus crops.