David Pridmore, an experienced viticulturist for over 30 years, responsible for 400 acres in McLaren Vale, has found a breakthrough solution in NORDOX 750WG -a red copper formulation that delivers sustainable disease control without the drawbacks of other copper products.
“In 2021 it was a wet year and we were spraying in close intervals—every 10 days—and we still got downy, as did others in the region” David recalls. Using copper hydroxide and tribasic copper, he faced not only disease failures but also blocked filters, nozzle clogs, and tank mix headaches.
That changed when Jacques Vos from Muirs McLaren Flat recommended trying NORDOX 750WG. Following the outbreak in 2021, David applied a downy mildew eradicant application and then followed for the rest of the season with NORDOX every 10-14 days.
“We had downy, then we didn’t, and unlike the rest of the region our downy didn’t come back!”
Why NORDOX 750WG Worked
NORDOX Copper, a red copper formulation based on copper oxide (Cu₂O), has long been recognised worldwide for its powerful control of a broad spectrum of fungal and bacterial diseases across numerous crops. NORDOX is registered in Australia for downy mildew control in viticulture.
Superior Rainfastness
NORDOX 750WG’s small particle size increases surface coverage and improves adhesion on plants, even in wet and windy conditions.
The small particle size also enhances the release of active copper ions under the moist conditions that promote downy mildew, while its low solubility reduces the risk of phytotoxicity often associated with finer particles.
“We still need to reapply to cover new growth, but I’m saving on the number of applications each year because I’m confident the product stays active and effective even after heavy rain.”
Controlled Ion Release
NORDOX operates differently from other copper products thanks to its very low solubility at pH levels above 6.5. It provides surface disease protection through Cu²⁺ ions while also supporting plant nutrition, as copper is slowly dissolved by plant exudates and moisture—releasing small amounts of Cu⁺ ions that are available for uptake before quickly converting to Cu²⁺.
Low Solubility
Unlike more soluble copper products that flood leaf surfaces with copper ions (risking phytotoxicity and plant stress), NORDOX releases copper slowly, only when plant exudates and water is present. This:
- Reduces plant stress - copper stress can cause restrictions in crop growth
- Lowers risk of phytotoxicity - burning
- Improves compatibility with other tank mix products
Mixability, Compatibility & Handling
NORDOX is a cost-effective, easy-to-use copper that mixes like a liquid due to its unique 200-micron hollow granule made of 1-micron particles—delivering dust-free handling, fast dispersion, and excellent compatibility.
“In the past we had trouble with tank mixes clogging up filters when using both copper hydroxides and tribasic copper. NORDOX has been easy to handle and mix and the biggest benefit in handling has been in no issues with our filters anymore.”
Organic Certification & Sustainability
NORDOX is manufactured in Norway using 100% recycled high purity copper in a closed circuit water system. This commitment to sustainability meets and exceeds strict EU environmental standards, offering growers not only high efficacy but also peace of mind regarding environmental impact.
NORDOX has a number of international organic farming certifications including USDA NOP and can be included in organic Australian practice through requested inclusion.
The NORDOX plastic pail is both recyclable and reusable.
David’s low impact philosophy aligns with Nordox performance. “We could nearly be organic—except for weed control. I only use what’s needed, and Nordox fits that perfectly.”
Cost-Effective
Nordox is a safe, cost-effective copper fungicide offering long lasting protection.
“Initially I thought the cost of NORDOX was high, and yet on looking at rate and cost per hectare it's comparable to copper hydroxides and works, with improved compatibility. Even compared to tribasic copper, NORDOX is my preferred product of use now."
Equipment Cleaning
Small particle size ensures excellent crop adhesion, it also means residue can build up on application equipment. Proper cleaning is essential.
“I am aware some growers might be worried about equipment cleaning, yet we know if the product sticks to equipment it also sticks to the crop.”
To keep your equipment looking new, refer to the provided clean-up sheets available on Tanuki’s Website under NORDOX product information.
David’s Experience of “switching to NORDOX” led to:
- Effective downy mildew control
- Reduced spray frequency
- No tank mix compatibility issues and no blocked filters or nozzle clogging
- Easy to handle & mix
- Clean fruit even when neighbouring vineyards faced rejection due to disease
- Cost effective disease control
- Confidence in product quality with environmentally conscious manufacture
“Running tractors up and down isn’t cheap. If you’re spraying something that doesn’t work, that’s a real cost. I’d rather pay for something that actually works.” David now works with viticulturist Mauricio Pellin at Muirs, who also recommends NORDOX in the program.
David says, “I am happy to share the success of this product with other growers.”
For viticulture enquiries, please contact Sheri Robinson - Territory Manager Sourthern Australia.
