ALERTFLORS – Development of an early warning system to improve the sustainable control of Monilinia laxa in almond trees

Crisol de Frutos Secos SAT, together with Ametlles Vicens SL, Ocean Almond SL, Borges Agricultural & Industrial Nuts SA, and Fruits Secs de les Garrigues SCCL, with the participation of the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), are working on the Operational Group under the acronym ALERTFLORS.


In recent years, almond cultivation has experienced significant growth worldwide and also in Spain. New varieties with better agronomic performance have been introduced, and more intensive production models have been implemented. These changes in cultivation have led to increased pressure from new diseases, as well as the resurgence of others—such as brown rot caused by Monilinia laxa—which were previously considered under control. This situation is currently raising concerns in the sector due to the loss of competitiveness in a rapidly growing market.

Therefore, it is essential to improve our understanding of these diseases, comprehend their life cycles, and identify both environmental and varietal factors that influence their incidence and severity. This knowledge is crucial for implementing sustainable strategies to improve disease management and mitigate the losses they cause.

The main objective of ALERTFLORS is to design and assess the technical effectiveness of an alert system that indicates when there is a risk of infection by Monilinia laxa in almond crops. The goal is to determine the optimal timing and highest efficacy for fungicide applications, aiming for disease management that is both environmentally and economically sustainable for farmers.

Action of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027 co-financed by: