A specific off-label approval for BASF fungicide Signum (boscalid + pyraclostrobin) has been granted by the Chemicals Regulation Directorate for use against alternaria in potatoes.

Applications need to be made protectively before the start of the season, so it is suggested the first treatment is applied when the weather conditions are conducive to disease development.

To ensure late blight protection is maintained, it may be necessary to apply with an appropriate late blight fungicide. To use Signum growers must obtain a copy of the SOLA (reference number 1942 of 2010) from the CRD website, ADAS or NFU.

Signum was awarded three stars for alternaria control by Euroblight, the highest rating given.