Bayer's biopesticide Serenade contains the naturally occurring Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain QST713. When the product is applied to the soil, these beneficial bacteria colonize plant roots. Root exudates are a food source for the bacteria in Serenade. In return, these bacteria protect the plant's roots, stolons and tubers from soil-borne diseases such as Rhizoctonia and scab. In addition, Serenade helps plants grow more root systems to improve nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus and trace elements iron, zinc and manganese.
Between 2018 and 2022, a comprehensive investigation of the efficacy of Serenade in potato field soils was carried out in collaboration with 50 leading growers in the Netherlands. Data from 147 large-scale field trials (6 replicates per treatment) generated a large database for detailed data and statistical analyses.
Field findings were brought back to Bayer's research facilities in Germany and the United States to replicate field observations and further uncover the fundamentals of Serenade's efficacy. Together with growers, consultants and value chain partners, Bayer confirmed the unique benefits of Serenade:
1. Can protect underground plant parts from soil diseases, such as Rhizoctonia and scab (Streptomyces)
2. Promote the formation of root systems, especially stolons.
3. Can significantly enhance the absorption of nutrients, such as calcium (Ca) and iron (Fe)
4. It can significantly improve skin quality and extend shelf life by enhancing the formation of cork.
5. It can significantly improve potato vitality and have a positive impact on the next growing season.
6. Can significantly reduce the formation of green tubers and solanine
Conclusion
The properties of Serenade can increase the marketable yield of potatoes, while improving skin quality, reducing disease incidence, increasing nutrient content (Ca, Fe), and significantly reducing solanine levels. The vigor of potatoes harvested by Serenade treatment is improved, which is the basis for increasing the yield of subsequent crops.
Application recommendations
Apply Serenade to the ravine at the time of planting at a rate of 5 liters per hectare. Serenade can be mixed with starter fertilizers and/or other fungicides. Be sure to use a coarse strainer to ensure optimal flow when applying.
Source: AgroPages
