A new Australian research project is investigating the use of ultraviolet (UV-C) light as an alternative to chemical fungicides for controlling powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause up to 30% yield loss in strawberry crops each year.
The four-year project, co-invested by Hort Innovation Frontiers and led by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI), will test UV-C light applications across strawberries, capsicums, cucurbits, and table grapes. The study aims to assess the technology's potential to help growers reduce input costs and chemical use while maintaining effective crop protection.
© Hort Innovation
The research will evaluate the performance of UV-C treatments under different environmental conditions, examining dosage requirements and the biological mechanisms behind UV-C tolerance in powdery mildew populations to establish optimal exposure levels.
Frequent fungicide use can lead to resistance in fungal pathogens and increase production costs. UV-C treatment offers a non-chemical approach to disease management that may help reduce the environmental impact of crop protection and minimise harm to beneficial insects.
Eduardo Barbosa, Research and Development Manager at Hort Innovation, said the project will help identify practical solutions for growers facing rising production costs. "As prices increase, growers continue to look for ways to reduce costs and get more benefits for fewer inputs. This technology could save growers money in a time when costs are at their highest," he said.
Barbosa added that improved disease management could reduce potential losses. According to the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook for FY23/24, the Australian strawberry industry produced 80,741 tonnes of fruit last year, meaning up to 24,000 tonnes could be lost annually to powdery mildew without effective control.
Two international technology partners will participate in the trials, supplying robotic and tractor-mounted UV systems for evaluation. The project also aligns with current industry efforts to advance automation and mechanisation to improve productivity and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.
© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Shannon O'Mara
Hort Innovation
Tel: +61 (0) 427 142 537
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au
