Italy: Downy mildew problems for basil

"The downy mildew problems in Sicily are not so worrying at the moment, but it would not hurt to take additional measures," says Giombattista Autore. It seems that the fungi (Plectosphaerella cucumerina and Peronospora Belbahrii) has been affecting basil plants all over Italy, so much so that action from the Parliament has been requested.

"Downy mildew is due to the recent hot-humid weather conditions. Rain and hot temperatures increase the development of the disease. Many are worried all over Italy. Pharmaceutical companies should be taking more steps for authorisation against downy mildew and whiteflies (Bemisia tabacis). They are the same products used on tomatoes, aubergines and cucumber more than once during 60-90 days. The basil productive cycle lasts instead 7 months, yet treatments are not repeated."

Contacts
Azienda Agricola Autore Giombattista
C/da Dragonara
Via XX Settembre n. 199
97019 Vittoria (RG)
Tel./Fax: (+39) 0932 802450
Cell.: (+39) 338 4172789
Cell.: (+39) 320 2282847
Email: gio.autore@tiscali.it
Web: www.aromaticheautore.it