Grape vine trunk diseases are prevalent in mature vineyards, shortening the vineyard’s life and productivity. Akif Eskalen, Cooperative Extension Specialist and Plant Pathologist at the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of California Davis, is researching naturally occurring microorganisms to use as biocontrol against these fungal pathogens. Antagonistic microorganisms already live in the plant tissue without causing damage to the plant but may become depleted. Akif and his team working to deliver beneficial bacteria back into the plant both at the nursery and in established vineyards. There is evidence that these beneficial microorganism not only increase the plants defense mechanism, but also improves the health of the plant and potentially increases yield.

References:

• 2: The Goldilocks Principle & Powdery Mildew Management (podcast)
• 47: Fungicide Resistance in the Vineyard (podcast)
• Eskalen Lab
• "Eutypa" A.K.A. Grapevine Trunk Disease
• Gubler-Thomas Model
• Managing Trunk Diseases During Vineyard Establishment with Dr. Kendra Baumgartner
• PMapp: A Mobile App for Assessing Grape Powdery Mildew
• SIP Certified Self-Assessment
• SIP for Scholars

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