Project Number: 1265-21220-176-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Nov 13, 2002
End Date: Nov 12, 2007

Objective:
Develop and integrate biologically-based technologies to improve crop health and system productivity. Test combinations of biocontrol agents, composts, vegetable cultivars, cover crops, and crop rotations for control of soilborne plant pathogens in cropping systems that currently rely on the use of methyl bromide. Study traits important to biocontrol of soilborne pathogens of plants; identify root colonization genes; study the impact of soil environment on colonization of plant roots by biocontrol agents.

Approach:
Use techniques from molecular biology, biochemistry and basic microbiology to identify genes important for disease suppression and root colonization by biocontrol agents. Multi-disciplinary collaboration on growth chamber, greenhouse, and field experiments will include examining the effects of biocontrol agents, composts, cover crops, and crop rotations on crop health and system productivity. BSL-2 recertified 4-17-02.

Project Team

Roberts, Daniel Abdul-Baki, Aref Millner, Patricia

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003

Related National Programs

Methyl Bromide Alternatives (308)

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