Conventional and organic growers alike have a new broad-spectrum fungicide option for canola and pulses.

Serenade, distributed by UAP Canada, is derived from a naturally-occurring soil bacteria and has both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

Top, mildew is seen on an untreated leaf surface. Bottom, Serenade destroys a germinating fungal spore. (Photos courtesy UAP Canada)

Serenade is registered for the suppression of sclerotinia on canola, white mould on dry beans and botrytis blight of pulses, among others.

The product works through three unique modes of action and is the only member of a new group of fungicides, making it a new option for fungicide group rotation to avoid pathogen resistance.

Brodie Blair, western product manager of UAP, says that he doesn’t want conventional growers to shy away from the organic label of Serenade.

“Serenade is a naturally occurring soil bacteria, but that doesn’t make it less effective,” he says. For example, Blair says, Serenade worked as well as the conventional standard to suppress sclerotinia in canola.

Serenade can be applied either by air or ground and will be available through UAP across Western Canada this month.