A quick update from Dr. Bhabesh Dutta – Downy Mildew (DM) has been found in squash in Tift County. The same pathogen that causes the disease in that cucurbit can also cause DM in watermelon. Now that downy has been found this close to Crisp County its advisable to be extra vigilant and also think about incorporating a DM material in your spray schedule.
Options include: Elumin, Ranman, Previcur Flex, Orondis Optri and Ultra. Orondis Ultra is also labeled for Phytophthora.
Please let me know if you have any questions and/or have a field to scout.
See the 2022 UGA watermelon spray guide below:
