Trunk injection of fungicides reduces esca symptoms in grapevines

A 2003–2005 study in Hungary found rising esca incidence in vineyards, peaking at 8.59% in 2005. A 2005 trial in Nagyrédé tested trunk injection of propiconazole, difenoconazole, thiacloconazole, and combinations in 17-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Using a StemJect® injector at 30–40 bar, treatments reduced symptom severity significantly, with difenoconazole + thiacloconazole most effective. The method showed benefits in chemical efficiency and environmental impact. Symptom scores were assessed in July and September 2005; results indicated efficacy varied by disease stage and conditions. The study, supported by Hungarian-Italian research cooperation, recommends tailored trunk injection as a viable control strategy for esca.