Caldo sulfocálcico: una alternativa sustentable en la producción agrícola

This paper presents a technical review on the use of sulfocalcic broth as a sustainable alternative in phytosanitary management. The increase in agrochemical costs, coupled with the environmental impact and health risks associated with the use of synthetic pesticides, has motivated the search for sustainable alternatives in agricultural production. In this context, sulfocalcic broth—a mixture of quicklime and sulfur—is presented as an effective and low-cost option for pest and disease control. Its preparation is simple and accessible to farmers, following traditional procedures that involve cooking the ingredients in water for one hour, until a thick, wine-red solution is obtained. This product has demonstrated fungicidal and insecticidal effects, especially against downy mildew, powdery mildew, mites, thrips, and mealybugs, while also promoting vegetative growth and improving nutrient absorption. Application is mainly carried out through foliar spraying or irrigation, with strict adherence to technical recommendations such as application time, nozzle type, and avoiding its use during sensitive crop phases, such as flowering, being crucial. In conclusion, sulfocalcic broth represents a sustainable, effective, and accessible alternative for phytosanitary management, particularly useful for small and medium-sized producers interested in agroecological practices.