Copper against botrytis control
The effectiveness, measured
Time horizon: 1 season
Why it works
Copper has a secondary skin-hardening effect and action on cluster flora, contributing modestly against botrytis.
What to measure for this pairing
Why this problem matters
Botrytis (Botrytis cinerea) sets up in compact clusters, wounds and humid microclimate, especially near harvest. Organic has no systemic curatives: defence is essentially preventive.
The priority is to lower the risk — open the cluster zone, avoid excess vigour and protect skin integrity — and reinforce with biocontrol agents. Deciding on cluster compactness and weather avoids pointless treatments.
Problem indicators
Certification & rules: Critical for grape health and avoiding off-flavours in the wine.
How to apply the means
- 1Treat preventively ahead of forecast infection periods.
- 2Use the minimum effective rate and good spray technology.
- 3Renew after significant rain or strong growth.
- 4Log each application and track the 7-year mean.
Frequently asked
What is the copper limit under organic rules?
In the EU, 28 kg of metallic copper per hectare over 7 years (a 4 kg/ha/yr average). Every application must be summed within that rolling window.
How do I cut copper without losing the crop?
By treating on risk models instead of a calendar, at the minimum effective rate, with good coverage and more efficient formulations — and logging everything to optimise season over season.
Same means, other problems
Same problem, other means — Botrytis
How GrapeFlow helps
The proof organic certification demands — logged by plot and date.
Copper balance (7-year mean)
Every copper application summed automatically on the 7-year rolling mean, per plot — direct control of the EU 28 kg/ha cap that certification audits.
Downy & powdery mildew risk models
Per-plot disease risk from local weather, to treat at the right moment and spend less copper and sulfur.
Phytosanitary register with authorised inputs
Every treatment logged with product, rate and active substance, flagging what is allowed under organic rules — an audit-ready history.