To investigate a range of rates and timings of foliar fungicide to try to reduce the impact of aerial blackleg.

• Trial data from the fast track project is still to be analysed. The following key messages are from trials conducted by Steve Marcroft in conjunction with the fast track project.
• Normal crown canker occurred as predicted, i.e. high leaf infection resulting in crown canker. Fungicides applied at the 4-6 leaf growth stage were effective at reducing crown canker. Cultivar resistance was also very significant.
• Upper Canopy Infection did not develop as badly as anticipated with the many leaf lesions noted early in the season.
• Pod infection was not influenced by fungicide applications up to 30% bloom, but flowering date was very significant.
• Fungicide was effective at reducing Upper Canopy Infection. Fungicide was effective at significantly increasing yield, however the most effective timing for fungicide application was variable for each of the disease symptoms.
• The sclerotinia spray application timing (30% bloom) appeared to be a good timing for Upper Canopy Infection control. However this work needs to be repeated in seasons that are conducive for severe Upper Canopy Infection symptoms.