The potential of the fungicide phosphite to control Phytophthora cinnamomi in native plant communities associated with mining

Summary

The foliar application of phosphite was assessed as a practicable, economic and effective way to control Phytophthora cinnamomi in native plant communities in Western Australia.

Its efficacy in preventing infection and subsequent colonisation of P.cinnamomi and in preventing sporulation from infected plants was evaluated and in some conditions both infection and sporulation were prevented or reduced.

Appropriate times of year for treatment and side effects on plants were also evaluated, and specific recommendations for the use of phosphite were derived from all the above information.

Keywords: phosphite, Phytophthora, cinnamomi, die-back