PathoCURB™ is a non-synthetic, organic, thyme oil-based fungicide-bactericide, ideal for enhancing your Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program against hops powdery mildew. PathoCURB is classified as a BM 01 fungicide/bactericide, which means that it employs multiple modes of action to disrupt cellular membranes. Since no single solution can manage pathogens and diseases entirely, we've compiled these recommendations to help you achieve optimal control.
Breaking Down the Pathogen Pressure Cycle into Four Stages:
Stage 1: Early Growth Phase | Up to Mid-June
Preventative Control
Regularly scout the field for powdery mildew emergence. Use cost-effective sulfur-based chemistries to prevent onset. Apply PathoCURB at a low rate (0.25-0.5%) every 7-14 days if hot spots develop or as a preventative measure. Be aware that using oil-based chemistries with sulfur can cause some phytotoxicity. Conduct a test on a small plot if intending to tank mix a sulfur product with PathoCURB. Target application 24 hours before forecasted rain and when temperatures are below 90°F.
Stage 2: Ramp-Up Phase | Mid-June to Bloom
Early Critical
Powdery mildew onset increases. Use PathoCURB every 7-14 days (0.5-1%) to prevent growth and spread. PathoCURB has demonstrated control of powdery mildew up to 14 days post-application. Alternate or tank mix PathoCURB with other chemistries to provide additional modes of action. Its essential oil base reduces resistance risk, making it an ideal management tool in stages 1 and 2.
Stage 3: Peak Susceptibility Phase | Bloom through Cone Set
Critical Control
Hops are most vulnerable, and mildew pressure peaks. Use trusted chemistries aggressively. Apply PathoCURB as a trusted chemistry at 1% every 7-10 days. Alternatively, consider rotating or tank mixing PathoCURB with standard chemistries to lower resistance risk and increase modes of action. Ensure label compatibility and conduct a jar test when mixing new products.
Stage 4: Pre-Harvest Phase | Cone set Through Harvest
Maintenance
Aim to protect hops cones until harvest. Continue using PathoCURB at a low rate (0.25-0.5%) every 7-14 days. PathoCURB offers 0-REI, 0-PHI, is MRL-exempt, has minimal PPE requirements, and zero use restrictions, providing flexibility and peace of mind up to and through harvest.
