Location: Wheat Health, Genetics, and Quality Research
Project Number: 2090-22000-019-027-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Mar 31, 2026
End Date: Mar 30, 2030
Objective:
The objectives of this cooperative research are :1) to identify, characterize and control soilborne pathogens of wheat and barley, such as Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, and Pythium, which cause root and crown rot diseases; 2) to identify the effects of cropping system on soilborne pathogen populations and diversity, and on disease epidemiology; and 3) to identify plant disease management strategies to supress soilborne pathogens.
Approach:
Root and crown rot diseases will be identified and characterized through a combination of laboratory, greenhouse and field studies. The ecology of soilborne pathogens and effects of cropping system on pathogen populations and diversity, and disease epidemiology will be determined using classical plant pathology and microbiology methods and molecular techniques. Practical root disease control will be accomplished through a combination of agronomic practices, and biological and chemical treatments.