How to reduce copper in plant protection: 4th European conference in Berlin
Copper with its unique properties remains essential for organic and conventional farmers in order to combat fungal diseases, but its negative aspects require ambitious efforts to reduce its use, reduction foreseen from 6 kg to 4 kg per hectare /year. For this reason the debate continues. The German association BÖLW-Bund Ökologische Lebensmittelwirtschaft e.V. , together with IFOAM EU and Julius Kühn-Institut, in order to share and discuss innovative ways to keep plants healthy in organic and integrated systems, promotes a new meeting on the subject in Berlin on November 14-15, inviting to participate farmers, scientists , legislators, agricultural consultants and other people working with or on copper. Their contribution to the conference program, according to the German association, would be very important. The official language of the conference will be English.
In most arable crops, farmers can regulate diseases and pests with intelligent crop rotation systems. Growing permanent crops like apples, wine or hops without relying on synthetic pesticides is a major challenge. Consistent strategies including the improvement of functional biodiversity, the selection of rustic varieties and the application of natural substances against pests and diseases can keep plants healthy.
The conference will start on the morning of November 14 with a pre-event that will examine the future development of phytosanitary strategies that can replace copper in organic farming.
For more information and registration, click HERE
Julius Kühn-Institut, Königin-Louise-Str. 19, 14195 Berlin
14-15 November 2019, from 9.00 am
Source: BÖLW
