Project Number: 5350-22000-019-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Nov 13, 2012
End Date: Dec 31, 2013

Objective:
Objective 1: Define the functional mechanism(s) that operate soil amendment-based strategies that suppress the pathogen/parasite complex which incites orchard replant disease. Objective 2: Develop and evaluate in the field novel integrated systems to attain the necessary spectrum of pathogen/parasite suppression for control of orchard replant disease. Objective 3: Develop molecular markers in rootstock of apple, pear, and/or cherry to identify rootstock resistance or enhance biocontrol.

Approach:
This program will develop a systems approach to disease management which exploits the biological resources resident to orchard ecosystems and utilizes minimal inputs beyond that commonly employed during orchard renovation or management. This will be achieved through acquiring an understanding of the biological and chemical mechanisms involved in the brassicaceae seed meal induced suppression of the pathogen complex contributing to apple replant disease. New tools will be developed to efficiently monitor fungal community structure in these soils to garner a more complete understanding of the functional elements contributing to disease suppression and the temporal nature of the response. Enhanced efficacy of bio-active plant residues for the control of soilborne pathogens will be obtained by clarifying the role of soil microbial communities in eliciting the inhibitory activity of these plant tissues. Information from these studies will be utilized to develop and field validate biologically sustainable management strategies for control of replant diseases in conventional and organic production systems.