Critical Period for Disease Management in Grapes – Facts for Fancy Fruit

Critical Period for Disease Management in Grapes

The most important time of the year for fruit disease control in grapes is from pre-bloom to 4-5 weeks past fruit set. The potential for fruit infection drops significantly 4-5 weeks post-bloom. Important diseases to control during this time include black rot, downy mildew and powdery mildew. Fruit of the most commonly planted varieties is resistant to black rot, downy mildew and powdery mildew, but rachises (stems) and leaves remain susceptible. Therefore, protection against these fungal pathogens is required throughout the growing season for these parts of the plant.

A list of recommended products can be found in The Midwest Fruit Pest Management Guide. It is important to get good coverage in the fruit zone. Also, beware that downy and powdery mildew pathogens are especially prone to fungicide resistance, so avoid back-to-back applications of any one systemic fungicide class (i.e. FRAC 3, 7 or 11).

Share This Article
Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran. This material may be available in alternative formats. 1-888-EXT-INFO Disclaimer: Reference to products in this publication is not intended to be an endorsement to the exclusion of others which may have similar uses. Any person using products listed in this publication assumes full responsibility for their use in accordance with current directions of the manufacturer.

Page last modified: May 14, 2025

Facts for Fancy Fruit - Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, 625 Agriculture Mall Dr., West Lafayette, IN 47907

© 2025 Purdue University | An equal access/equal opportunity university | Copyright Complaints | Maintained by Facts for Fancy Fruit

If you have trouble accessing this page because of a disability, please contact Facts for Fancy Fruit at kkalbaug@purdue.edu | Accessibility Resources