RootDei Biocontrol® is an innovative biofungicide to control potato diseases based on the Trichoderma asperellum strain T34, with a concentration of 1x10^9 CFU/g and formulated as WP (wettable powder). It stands out for its storage capability, maintaining efficacy for 24 months at 4 °C and 15 months at 20 °C. RootDei has demonstrated high efficacy in reducing diseases across various climates and soils.

The product is backed by 15 GEP studies, supporting its phytosanitary registration in Germany, and it will soon obtain mutual recognition in the Netherlands and Belgium. These endorsements ensure its effectiveness and safety for farmers in these markets. RootDei not only controls diseases but also increases crop yield and improves potato caliber.

Furthermore, RootDei is the biological control product with the highest soil persistence after application, ensuring prolonged protection. It is compatible with many fungicides, fertilizers, biostimulants, and soil disinfectants, though mixing it in the same tank is not recommended. It is applied in-furrow during planting, ensuring effective protection from day one. RootDei Biocontrol is the ideal choice for farmers seeking sustainable, high-performance solutions in agriculture.

Date of market introduction in Belgium (if still in development: expected date of launch)
January 2025

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ROOTDEI BIOCONTROL® is an innovative biofungicide for controlling Rhizoctonia spp. on potatoes, formulated with the T34 strain of Trichoderma asperellum, an authorized active substance in the EU for use as a plant protection product. Authorized in Germany in March 2024, and with sales authorization expected in Belgium in the coming months, the product will be launched for the 2025 potato planting season. Unlike traditional chemical products, which many growers still rely on due to a lack of alternatives, ROOTDEI BIOCONTROL® will be one of the few biofungicides authorized for potatoes and field crops. This innovation supports the European “Farm to Fork” strategy, aiming to reduce plant protection chemicals by 50% by 2030, providing a more effective and sustainable solution to protect crops and contribute to a healthier and greener food system.

Added value for the user (in commercial terms, user-friendliness ...)
RootDei Biocontrol® offers numerous advantages: - Effective: Demonstrates excellent control of Rhizoctonia spp. - Plant Benefits: Enhances nutrient uptake, germination, and defense mechanisms, leading to higher yields. - User-Friendly: A wettable product applied at a low dose (250g/ha) during planting, compatible with standard fertilizer equipment. - High Compatibility: It can be used with most fertilizers, herbicides, and fungicides; however, we recommend not mixing it in the same tank. - No Phytotoxicity: Safe for potato seeds; the company is developing seed application methods. - Residue-Free: Complies with safety standards for residue management. - Organic Certification: Suitable for both conventional and organic farming. - Environmentally Safe: Poses no harm to human health or non-target organisms, promoting healthier soils. - Convenient Storage: Shelf life of at least 24 months at 4ºC and 15 months at 20ºC.

Added value for the further sustainability and professionalization of the potato sector.
ROOTDEI BIOCONTROL® is an effective biofungicide for controlling the major potato disease Rhizoctonia solani. Included in the FiBL list for organic production and certified by ECOCERT, ROOTDEI BIOCONTROL® has been tested for over three years in several European countries (NL, BE, DE, UK, FR, PO, HU), showing equivalent performance to standard chemicals. Besides controlling pathogens, it enhances nutrient uptake and activates plant defense mechanisms, leading to healthier, more productive plants and better crop yields. This innovation reduces reliance on traditional fungicides, supporting EU sustainability goals. ROOTDEI promotes eco-friendly practices, improves soil health, and boosts long-term resilience. It is a valuable tool for potato growers seeking healthier crops, higher yields, and sustainable protection products that do not harm the environment or human health, contributing to the professionalization of potato cultivation through innovative biocontrol technologies.