DuPont™ Kocide® 2000, Sound Cultural Practices Help Florida Growers Keep Upper Hand on Citrus Canker

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 3, 2006 – Citrus canker is here to stay and many growers may already be on the right track toward minimizing its devastation.

“DuPont supports the USDA’s decision to undertake a new approach to managing canker and is committed to working with federal partners, the scientific community and growers to share our extensive experience in dealing with this potentially devastating disease,” said Andy Selley, DuPont product manager.

Extensive research by DuPont in Brazil, as well as domestic and international university research, demonstrates that no single solution will cure, eradicate or control canker. However, an integrated program that combines sound cultural practices with timely fungicide applications can make it a manageable disease.

DuPont™ Kocide® 2000 fungicide/bactericide remains the foundation of successful protection against citrus canker.

“For growers already using Kocide® 2000 for control of scab, melanose, greasy spot and other bacterial diseases, no other product is needed to protect against canker,” Selley said. “Growers must start applying Kocide® 2000 earlier and apply a minimum of four sequential sprays to effectively manage and minimize the spread of canker, along with other diseases. The major change of advice for fresh fruit producers is to start spraying earlier, but for juice producers, it’s essential they increase the frequency of Kocide® 2000 spraying to ensure canker protection. This approach will help provide an opportunity for significant yield benefits beyond just canker protection,” he adds.
Applying Kocide® 2000 at a rate of 2-4 pounds per acre, starting at first flush and then at seven- to 14-day intervals, will provide effective disease management, according to field studies.

Kocide® 2000 is also a participating product in the FFVA Partners In Production program. “Credible, Florida-specific research will be the most critical tool to effective canker control in the future,” said Selley. “DuPont is pleased to be part of this effort.” A percentage of all Florida purchases will be donated to the foundation.

“In the meantime,” Selley said, “an integrated program is the best strategy for effective control. Using a strong stewardship program that includes certified root stock, good crop management hygiene and effective windbreaks, field inspections and slightly altering current spray programs, will greatly reduce the spread of canker and allow effective management of the disease,” he said.

DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 counties, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets, including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and production, home and construction, and transportation and apparel.

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