Check out the full article on page 14 of Good Fruit & Vegetables magazine.
Backed by 30 years of extensive research, development, testing and real-world use from his previous business in the US, the Flamingro formulation is ideal for Australian conditions.
“In California’s vineyard regions, the climate is very dry, so we developed a liquid formula that could be applied through irrigation systems. Given the similar conditions in Australia, we’ve adapted this approach with a dry product that’s finely milled to work through irrigation systems without causing blockages,” explains Flamingro founder, Ian Rew.
“This new dry formulation not only improves on its predecessor but also boasts a significantly higher chitin content than the product I originally developed in the US.”
Nematodes, microscopic roundworms, are a significant threat to grapevines in Australia, costing the industry an estimated $14 million annually. These parasitic pests, particularly the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.), are notorious for causing severe yield losses, especially in regions like the Sunraysia, Barossa Valley, and Western Australia’s viticultural areas. Without intervention, infestations can reduce grape yields by 20-40%, leading to stunted growth and poor vine vigour.
Flamingro induces and enhances the natural defensive mechanisms in plants by increasing local endophyte numbers in the soil. They enter the root system and create a barrier effect, where they prevent pathogenic microorganisms from attacking the roots and spreading disease.
The endophytes stop the pathogenic microorganisms, giving the plant’s roots a chance to thrive and grow a much bigger root mass, creating larger, healthier plants. This is especially critical in regions where sandy soils make grapevines more vulnerable to nematode damage. With 70-80% of current wine grape plantings on their own roots, Flamingro offers a vital layer of protection that could significantly reduce losses across the industry.
“Once a grower uses our product, its value becomes clear. As a farmer myself, I understand the skepticism—when someone is selling me a product, I need to see tangible results. That’s why we believe our product speaks for itself. When farmers witness its effectiveness, it earns their trust—and their business.”
With a 26% increase in root mass seen in trials, Flamingro is now available to growers across Australia.
