Can Lime Sulfur Be Used to Control Phomopsis in Blueberries?
” is a question commonly asked. Lime sulfur has gained renewed interest in fruit grower circles because of its use in organic fruit production. Some growers undoubtedly have used lime sulfur and can speak from experience. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to find documented evidence on the efficacy of lime sulfur for control of Phomopsis in blueberries, particularly in Michigan. Add to that the corrosive nature of the product, which might discourage even the most seasoned grower from using it. Lime sulfur, which has 30 percent calcium polysulfide as its active ingredient, is sold as a liquid spray material. Some people have found Orthorix, a similar product, to be somewhat easier to work with. Lime sulfur is recommended for control of raspberry cane diseases, such as anthracnose and spur blight. Keep in mind that raspberry anthracnose is caused by a completely different organism (Elsinoe veneta) than the one responsible for anthracnose fruit rot in blueberries (Colletotrichum acutat
