Powdery mildew is a serious disease in strawberry cultivation . Continuing its research on this subject, Wageningen University is investigating whether climate control in the greenhouse can stop the spread of powdery mildew. To this end, researchers at the University focus on the microclimate around the product.
Powdery mildew on strawberries is caused by the fungus "podosphaera aphanis". Fungal spores disperse through the air and germinate on the fruit or leaf on which they land, producing mycelium. These fungi appear as a white powder on the leaf or fruit.
Although strawberry producers want to take a big step towards sustainability, there is no effective biological control on these fungi yet. For this reason, fungi can be controlled by chemical methods.
For this reason, Wageningen University researchers are examining the possibilities of controlling the climate in greenhouses to prevent the germination of fungal spores and the development of mycelium.
Spreading Fast
Studies show that at high relative humidity, the germination of powdery mildew spores increases. The mycelium grows best at low relative humidity and the air is relatively humid at night; powdery mildew can spread very quickly in a greenhouse, as it is also relatively dry during the day.
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Therefore, controlling the relative humidity is a potential solution. However, it is important to know what the climatic conditions are in the immediate vicinity of the product.
The University uses this microclimate by 1 mm near strawberry leaves and fruits. at a distance of 5 mm. It investigates by attaching small sensors. With this research, it was seen that the relative humidity around a fruit changes more strongly than the rest of the greenhouse.
Based on these microclimate measurements, the university researchers will conduct bioanalyses investigating which climatic conditions allow powdery mildew spores to germinate and develop into mycelium, and which do not. Mechanically lowering or increasing the relative humidity may therefore be a potential solution. The principle that is important here for Wageningen University; This research is done in a way that will save energy without warning other diseases and pests.
The powdery mildew research, which will run until spring 2022, will be funded by the Kas als Energiebron program.
Sources
Çilek meyvesi görseli hortidaily.com