Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
agents that help manage plant pathogenic fungi. Part of the value of
Tricho-
derma
is that it acts in many different ways to greatly reduce the risk of
pathogens developing resistance to it. The
Trichoderma
can simply compete
with pathogens for space and nutrients, and it can also alter the environment
available to pathogens and stimulate plant defense mechanisms.
Surround
The product Surround is one of a handful of near-miracles for organic fruit
production. This material is made of edible clay (kaolin) that is used in tooth-
pastes, food additives, and in the treatment of diarrhea. Researchers found
that applying a thin film of the clay to fruit trees helped repel and confuse
insect pests. As the material became widely adopted by the orchard com-
munity, growers found that the clay layer covering the stems, leaves, and
fruits also helped control powdery mildew and brown rot. Because Surround
is primarily used in pest management, we will discuss it in detail in the fol-
lowing chapter.
Pome Fruit Diseases
Parts of the following discussion on pome and stone fruit diseases are ad-
apted from the Pacific Northwest Plant Disease Handbook and materials
published online by Ohio State University and the West Virginia University
Kearneysville Tree Fruit Research and Education Center (KTFREC).
Scab Diseases
Several scab diseases affect pome and stone fruits. The best-known and
most serious of these is apple scab. Pear scab and peach scab can also be
occasional problems for fruit growers, particularly under humid conditions.
