Project Number: 1907-22000-017-06
Project Type: Grant

Start Date: Sep 20, 2005
End Date: Sep 19, 2010

Objective:
The overall objective of this cooperative research project is to develop new technologies and strategies for more effective management of diseases of greenhouse floriculture. Specific objectives include: 1) Characterization of the role of the environment in determining atmospheric concentrations of Peronospora sp., the causal agent of downy mildew on coleus; 2) Determination of the susceptibility of different coleus cultivars to downy mildew, and 3) Characterization of the efficacy of new active ingredients, including reduced-risk fungicides, biocontrol agents or biopesticides, against Botrytis cinerea, Pythium spp., Phytophthora spp., and downy mildew pathogens.

Approach:
Project objectives will be accomplished through establishment of an interdisciplinary research team that will pursue project objectives within the framework of our existing plant pathology research programs. Research will be conducted through close interaction with diverse growers throughout the United States. Research on new active ingredients and commercial products (including reduced risk fungicides and biopesticides) for control of Phytophthora, Botrytis, Pythium and downy mildew pathogens will focus on identification of the most effective materials and determination of application rates, application intervals, and other factors that provide for highest and most consistent and reliable efficacy. Efficacy tests will be conducted in replicated research plots using susceptible crops.