Practicing biocontrol using vinegar

Vinegar is an aqueous solution with a low content of acid acetic acid. Its action as a fungicide has been reported in scientific and technical publications since 1928. Vinegar was then used as a fungicide to protect wheat and barley plants or vegetable seeds vegetables (carrots, tomatoes …). This technique was later replaced by chemical treatments. Vinegar has reappeared with the development of organic farming which explores non-concerning solutions or "substances". Studies have enabled ITAB to have vinegar recognized as a basic substance since June 1, 2015.

How does it work?

Vinegar limits the attack of fungi spores. Its effect has been demonstrated against alternaria on tomatoes and carrots, as well as on fungal diseases transmitted by seeds such as bunt. The effect is also bactericidal thanks to its impact on the pH of the environment.

Trials conducted by various associated partners (notably FREDON Nord Pas de Calais) focused on finding biological solutions to fight against common bunt of wheat. This pathogen appears in a discreet form until the heading of the cereals, before manifesting with a shaggy appearance of the ears, with a green color. At harvest, the bunt-infected grains, black in color, emit a smell of rotten fish. The strong spreading power of the disease and its long persistence in the soil make bunt a concerning disease against which the only control strategy is seed protection. Vinegar at the dose of 1l/100 kg of seeds shows interesting effectiveness on the grain in various trials, although it does not reach the effectiveness of conventional seed treatments. Its effectiveness is therefore undeniable on seeds, but not total. Vinegar provides an insufficient level of protection in the case of contaminated soil.

Benefits

Very low danger for the user
Ease of implementation and no environmental consequences
Possible application on wheat and barley (1 l vinegar at 5 to 8 % + 1 l water / 100 kg of seeds)
No IFT
Positive image

Limitations

Limited effectiveness on other fungi such as oomycetes (Pythium)
On bunt, effective only on the grain.
Insufficient on contaminated soil.
Beware if overdosed, possible consequences on germination

Advisor's opinion

This solution is becoming widespread in seed stations supplying organic farmers with certified seeds. It is economical even if it can be criticized for its limited spectrum. The sanitary quality of seeds is closely linked to the conditions surrounding the end of the cereal cycle and the harvest. In favorable years, seed renewal, harvest quality, and sorting represent the primary guarantees to limit the risk of losses at emergence.

Cost

> 5 €/ha

Sources

This article was written based on the document The fields of possibility in biological control on arable crops jointly written by François DUMOULIN, Hélène BAUDET, Gilles SALITOT, and Inma TINOCO from the Chamber of Agriculture of Oise.

Appendices

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