When should protectant fungicides be applied?

Protectant fungicides are designed to act as a preventive measure against fungal diseases, which makes their application before the onset of disease crucial. Applying protectant fungicides ahead of time allows these products to create a barrier on plant surfaces, effectively preventing fungal spores from germinating and establishing an infection. This proactive approach is essential because once the disease is present, the efficacy of protectant fungicides decreases significantly, as they are not designed to eradicate established infections. Therefore, timely application before any signs of disease ensures that plants have a protective layer, enhancing their resilience against potential fungal threats.