Extracts of Inula viscosa Control Downy Mildew of Grapes Caused by Plasmopara viticola

The oily paste extracts of Inula viscosa leaves made with organic solvents were effective in controlling downy mildew caused by Plasmopara viticola in detached leaf tissues of grapes in growth chambers. Thin-layer chromatography of such extracts revealed the presence of 11 Rf regions of which four contained highly effective compounds against the disease. Two major inhibitory compounds, each comprising 10.6% of the total paste weight, were identified as tomentosin and costic acid. An emulsified concentrate formulation of the oily paste extracts provided excellent activity against the disease in the field. The effective dose (concentration) required for 90% control of the disease in treated shoots in the field was below 0.125% (paste in water). No seasonal fluctuations were observed in the control efficacy of six extracts made from I. viscosa leaves harvested during the period of May to July. In whole vines, treated and artificially inoculated, the paste concentration required for 90% control of the disease ranged between 0.30 to 0.37%, whereas in naturally infected vines it was 0.58%. It appears that I. viscosa is a valuable source for fungicidal preparations against downy mildew of grapes. This is the first report on the control of a disease with I. viscosa extracts under field conditions.