Heavy rains bring fungal attacks on Swiss vines

Wednesday, 28 July 2021 07:26

Vineyards in Switzerland are fighting an ever-increasing battle against an attack of fungal disease, brought on by heavy rainfall over the past few weeks.

Pierre-André Roduit, the president of the Valais Vine Growers Association, says he’s never seen so many fungal infections on the vines before.

After a hot spell in June, recent rain has led to the spread of late blight, with mildew and powdery mildew attacking the vines. Vineyards are having to apply anti-fungal treatments after every watering.

Vine growers are hoping that this will be enough to rescue this year’s crop, but it is predicted that the blight will lead to a reduced harvest than would normally be expected.

More from Bitesize News

Govt to delay funding decision for UNRWA

The Swiss government is putting off a decision on whether to re-start funding to the UN Palestinian relief organisation UNRWA.
Potential terrorist arrested in neighbouring France

A teenager threatening to attack the Paris Olympics has been arrested in neighbouring France.
New plan to pay for P+R in France

The canton of Geneva is proposing a new plan on how to finance Park and Ride schemes in neighbouring France.
Nestlé throws mineral water away

The Swiss food giant Nestlé has been forced to destroy several batches of its mineral water brand, Perrier, due to a bacterial contamination.
Sheep head prankster found

The person responsible for placing two sheep heads in the toilets in a Geneva school has been identified – and the investigation has been closed, according to the police.
Former president says Switzerland should join EU

A former member of the Federal Council says the only way Switzerland will achieve its European goals is by becoming a full member of the European Union.