Field horsetail

The primary mode of action is physical and biochemical reinforcement. When applied to leaves, the silica content deposits a microscopic, strengthening layer on the plant cuticle, making it significantly harder for fungal hyphae to penetrate.

In addition to silica, horsetail contains saponins such as equisetonin, which exhibit strong antifungal properties. These compounds inhibit the germination of fungal spores, providing a protective shield for the treated plants.

The application of horsetail extract acts as a natural immune booster for crops. It induces systemic acquired resistance, causing the plant to produce its own defensive compounds against pathogen attacks.

Since the mechanism of action is primarily contact-based, thorough coverage of the foliage is essential to ensure that the protective barrier is continuous across the surface of the plant.

Horsetail extract is highly effective against various powdery mildew species (Erysiphaceae) that affect both ornamental and edible crops. It is widely used in organic vineyards and orchards.

It provides suppression against leaf spot diseases, including septoria and alternaria. Regular preventive applications are known to delay the onset of late blight in potatoes and tomatoes.

The product is also a standard tool for managing apple and pear scab. By reducing the overall inoculum pressure, it creates a more favorable environment for plant health throughout the season.

Beyond fungal diseases, the siliceous deposits created on the leaf surface act as a mechanical deterrent against small sucking pests, such as aphids and spider mites, which find the hardened tissue difficult to feed upon.

• Powdery mildew
• Late blight
• Rust diseases
• Septoria leaf spot
• Scab (Venturia)

To prepare an effective working solution, one typically uses a water-based decoction or infusion of dried horsetail material. Recommended concentrations usually range from 1% to 5% of the total solution volume.

All applications must be strictly preventive. The first treatment should be applied early in the season, well before any symptoms of infection appear on the target crop.

The standard interval between treatments is 7 to 14 days, depending on environmental conditions. High humidity and temperature favor fungal growth, requiring more frequent applications to maintain the barrier.

Because horsetail is a natural substance, it generally has no harvest interval, allowing farmers to protect their crops right up until the day of harvest without concerns about chemical residues.

The working solution must be applied immediately after preparation. Prolonged storage of the liquid can lead to the degradation of active ingredients and a loss of fungicidal efficiency.

Compatibility with other pesticides should be carefully tested. Horsetail extract is generally incompatible with highly alkaline substances, which can neutralize the beneficial effect of the silicic acids.

While the substance is environmentally friendly, it is not recommended to apply it during high-wind conditions to avoid drift and ensure that the product is deposited evenly on the plant foliage.

Although it is a natural product, individuals handling concentrated herbal infusions should wear standard personal protective equipment to prevent potential skin or respiratory irritation from the concentrated plant matter.

Rainfall shortly after application can wash off the protective silica layer. If significant rain occurs immediately following a treatment, the application should be repeated to restore the level of protection.

For long-term storage of raw horsetail, keep the material in a cool, dry, and dark environment to maintain the stability and potency of the active chemical components.