Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
Our project is set to tackle a major problem affecting agriculture, specifically the disease known as Apple fire blight, caused by the bacterium E. amylovora. We have identified a potential solution, a bacterial strain of Pseudomonas soli T307 (T307), which can counteract the harmful effects of fire blight. The T307 strain produces a unique natural compound, RejuAgro A (RAA), which has proven effective in combatting E. amylovora. Initial testing in controlled environments and on the field showed promise; however, RAA production can fluctuate depending on the temperature and field conditions.To overcome this, we found that natural chemical inducers can be introduced to consistently boost RAA production. The pivotal part of our approach hinges on blending these RAA inducers with our biocontrol agent, to ensure their effective application in the field. Further to this, we are exploring how to enhance the immunity of the host plants, in combination with the application of P. soli T307.The ultimate goal of our project is to develop an integrated management system to protect crops, especially apples and pears, from fire blight for organic farmers, helping to improve crop yields and farm productivity.Our work aligns with the overarching aims of the ORG project, particularly in protecting plant health, expanding markets for emerging technologies, and providing alternatives to clinical antibiotics for disease control in agriculture. In essence, we're focused on pushing forward sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring healthier crops and a better future for farmers and the larger community.
Animal Health Component
0%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
30%
Applied
40%
Developmental
30%
Goals / Objectives
The overarching goal of this project is to contribute to sustainable agriculture and the promotion of organic farming practices, in alignment with the objectives set forth by the ORG.Our primary objectives are twofold:Safeguard Plant and Animal Health: The project aims to reduce the impact of major diseases, pests, and wildlife conflicts. Our focus is on the development of sustainable and effective methods for fire blight control, a serious threat to plant health, particularly for apple and pear crops.Foster Market Expansion for Sustainable Solutions: We strive to support the growth of markets for sustainable products and innovative technologies. By creating an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics used for fire blight control, we are promoting eco-friendly and organic approaches in agriculture. This not only aligns with USDA National Organic Standards Board Materials Subcommittee Research Priorities Proposal but also fosters market growth for these alternatives.Through achieving these objectives, our project anticipates making a significant contribution to sustainable agricultural practices and the growth of organic farming, with the aim of creating a healthier and more sustainable world.
Project Methods
The project is divided into three stages.Stage 1.1 involves searching for chemical inducers that stimulate RAA production in P. soli T307. These inducers are selected based on their capacity to promote RAA production in bacteria and are tested on P. soli T307 cultures in laboratory conditions. The concentration of RAA is measured using HPLC assay, and inducers that stimulate the highest RAA production are selected for further testing.Stage 1.2 is a greenhouse experiment designed to evaluate the suppression of E. amylovora growth by P. soli T307 treated with selected inducers. The experiment is performed on potted crab apple trees, with flowering induced for year-round data collection. E. amylovora population on the flowers is quantified post-inoculation, and any phytotoxic effects are documented. Data analysis is conducted using Fisher's LSD test and ANOVA in R.Stage 1.3 is a multi-year-multi-location field experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of P. soli T307 and inducers in suppressing fire blight disease under field conditions. The rate of fire blight infection post-inoculation is evaluated, and data analysis is performed similar to the greenhouse experiment.The second part of the project involves assessing the compatibility of P. soli T307 with two organic certified products, Regalia and Blossom Protect, and evaluating the efficacy of these combinations in field conditions.Compatibility is evaluated by observing if Regalia inhibits bacterial growth or RAA production in P. soli T307 cultures, and by performing a bioassay to assess the antagonistic effects between P. soli T307 and Aureobasidium pullulans, the active ingredient in Blossom Protect.Following compatibility determination, a two-year field experiment is carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of combined P. soli T307, Regalia, and Blossom Protect in controlling fire blight. Fire blight infections are rated post-inoculation, and the results are statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Fisher's LSD test in R.This project also involves dissemination of the findings to the farming community through multiple channels, including cooperative extension activities, direct communication with farmers, presentations at extension events, publications, and online resources. Experienced organic apple farmers, Rami Aburomia and Deirdre Birmingham, are involved in the project to provide practical guidance.The project's impact is evaluated by conducting post-project grower surveys and assessing the number of growers transitioning to organic practices. The data generated from this project aims to improve knowledge and influence actions concerning organic control of fire blight, ultimately improving apple tree health and reducing fire blight incidence.