Evaluation of biostimulants to control Guignardia leaf blotch (Guignardia aesculi) of horsechestnut and black spot (Diplocarpon rosae) of roses

Abstract

Biostimulants are classified as materials that are neither a fertilizer nor a pesticide, but when applied to a plant will enhance their health, growth, and protection. Manufacturers claim biostimulants have underexploited potential in providing protectant properties to plants against pathogen attack. This study evaluated the efficacy of seven commercially available biostimulants against the foliar pathogens Guignardia aesculi, leaf blotch of horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.) and Diplocarpon rosae black spot of roses (Rosa "Pretty Polly"). None of the biostimulant products tested in this investigation achieved a sufficient degree of pathogen control to warrant replacement of or supplementation with conventional synthetic fungicides. © 2012 International Society of Arboriculture.