ARMOUR-Zen®
ARMOUR-Zen® is a natural product containing the active ingredient soluble chitosan.
ARMOUR-Zen® has been tested over a number of seasons in wine grapes. The 2007-2008 season put the product under pressure with 21.5% crop loss in the untreated chardonnay crop and 9.5% crop loss in the sauvignon blanc. Regular applications of ARMOUR-Zen® through those periods of disease pressure significantly reduced the crop loss to levels similar to a full season fungicide programme.
For off-label use, please contact your local reseller.
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ARMOUR-Zen® is a biologically derived plant protection product specifically developed to control Botrytis cinerea in wine grapes and ornamentals, as well as Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in ornamentals. Its natural composition and dual-action efficacy make it an ideal choice for sustainable disease management.
ARMOUR-Zen® contains chitosan, a naturally abundant polysaccharide known for its plant-protective properties. However, not all chitosans are equal. The biological activity of chitosan depends on its source material and manufacturing process. ARMOUR-Zen® combines two specifically selected chitosan sources, chosen for their proven activity against Botrytis.
Formulated as a water-soluble concentrate, ARMOUR-Zen® is easily diluted and applied as a foliar spray. According to a peer-reviewed study published in Plant Pathology, ARMOUR-Zen® exhibits both antifungal and antimicrobial properties. It:
Prevents spore germination
Disrupts existing mycelial structures
Inhibits further spread of infection
Field trials have also shown that ARMOUR-Zen® contributes to a reduction in sour rot incidence in wine grapes—a significant value-add for viticulturists.
ARMOUR-Zen® has no withholding period. It degrades readily in the environment, leaving no detectable residues, making it an excellent fit for residue-sensitive markets and organic production systems.
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ARMOUR-Zen® is applied through standard spray equipment. As with any spray application, coverage and timing are vital in obtaining a good result. ARMOUR-Zen® should not be applied at the same time as biological control products. Contact us for further information.
Refer to the best practice information for individual crops for application timing and rate.
Best Practice
TRIAL
ARMOUR-Zen® has been extensively trialed for use in wine grapes from bunch-closure through to harvest.
ARMOUR-Zen® is included in the product testing programme which is being carried out by Kiwi Vine Health in their bid to control Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa).
ARMOUR-Zen® was tested on Petunia leaves for the control of Botrytis at the University of New Hampshire.