Decision Support System (DSS) for prevention of Botrytis in tomato in greenhouses

Within the framework of the Interreg project ‘Gezonde Kas’ a decision support system (DSS) for Botrytis risk in tomato was developed. This report fi rst summarizes existing knowledge on botrytis in tomato. The quantitative relationships are subsequently laid down in computer code. This code formed the basis of a dynamic simulation model to predict the risk on botrytis in a tomato crop. The model requires input from the climate computer of the greenhouse, and can also manage input from manual measurements. The report describes when and how the model predicts a high spore pressure and an increased risk on Botrytis infection, on the basis of climate conditions in the greenhouse. The prediction is highly improved when the data from the regular measurement box (‘meetbox’) are extended with data from a grid of sensors, positioned on representative spots in the greenhouse. The use of the model is facilitated for growers by the addition of a graphical user interface (GUI). The functionality of the GUI is explained. The DSS is now commercially available for growers and advisors, and can be used with and without other products of the Gezonde Kas project