Downy mildew of cucurbit in watermelon has been detected from Taylor County in Georgia (Aug 23, 2016). These observations indicate that inoculum of downy mildew is currently in GA and under favorable conditions (cool and wet conditions) potential disease outbreak in watermelon and other cucurbits can occur. I would suggest our watermelon growers to look for the downy mildew symptoms in their fields and start applying protective spray of below stated fungicides.

Watermelon: Rotation (foliar application)  with Orondis+Bravo/Manzate;

Ranman+Bravo/Manzate;

Previcur flex+Bravo/manzate

Please do not use Bravo after fruit set.

Other cucurbits: Ranman+Bravo; Previcur flex+Bravo

If Orondis was used as a soil application, please do not use it as foliar (use restriction according to label).

If Orondis was not used as a soil application, foliar application can be done for controlling downy mildew.

For more information please contact your local county extension agent.

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