Towards a knowledge-based approach for an integrated control of Alternaria spp. in potatoes (KOBALT)

After six seasons of intensive monitoring of potato fields, analysis and diagnosis, laboratory, greenhouse and field trials,  a good picture of the real Alternaria problem in Flanders was obtained: importance of the pathogen, occurrence of the disease in space and time, influence of weather , crop and cultivation factors. This knowledge forms the solid basis of the decision support system that is widely applied in practice, in order to achieve a more reasoned approach to Early Blight in potatoes, in accordance with the principles of IPM.

The building blocks of this DSS - weather data processed in disease models, crop development, cultivation factors - were brought together in a well-arranged manner, so that the grower has a good picture of the risk for his region and plot at all times. This makes it possible to use plant protection products in a more efficient manner.