While the market for plums is currently strong, with good prices, that is not always the case and growers also face significant challenges in crop protection. The number of effective plant protection products is shrinking, as regulatory changes withdraw familiar solutions, making it harder than ever to maintain healthy, productive orchards.
While the market for plums is currently strong, with good prices, that is not always the case and growers also face significant challenges in crop protection. The number of effective plant protection products is shrinking, as regulatory changes withdraw familiar solutions, making it harder than ever to maintain healthy, productive orchards.
Navigating pests, diseases, and limited solutions
As an important producer and exporter of plums, Italy grows around 50,000ha. of the fruit. Most stone fruit producers there cultivate a mix of plums, apricots, and peaches, balancing different harvest periods and market demands.
The main threats to plums include fungal diseases like Monilia (brown rot) and bacterial infections, as well as insect pests such as aphids, moths (notably Grapholita funebrana), and stink bugs (Halyomorpha halys). While some solutions remain available, such as copper for bacterial diseases and a handful of insecticides, options are increasingly limited, especially in the face of climate change and retailer demands for reduced residues of active ingredients. Growers must combine conventional and biological solutions, including mating disruption and Bacillus thuringiensis products, to protect their crops effectively.
Our focus is always on finding practical, effective solutions for growers. By working closely with grower associations and technical advisors, we can respond quickly to new challenges and share knowledge that really makes a difference in the field.
Alessandro Arbizzani, Development Manager for Perennial Crops.
Certis Belchim
Working together for practical progress
Certis Belchim is well placed to support them in this and works closely with Italian grower associations, distributors, technical advisors and opinion leaders to ensure that knowledge and support reach the people who need it most. Regular meetings in autumn and winter allow our technical experts to share the latest strategies and product updates with grower association technicians, who then advise their members. During the season, field visits and targeted meetings help address specific issues as they arise. This collaborative approach ensures that growers have access to the best available advice and solutions.
Trusted by grower associations
The technical support and responsiveness Certis Belchim provides is valued and appreciated by grower associations.
One association representative commented:
“Certis Belchim is recognised as a supportive partner. Their team listens to our concerns and works with us to find solutions that help our growers succeed, even when options are limited.”
