Muscodor Albus, A Biofumigant With The Potential to Manage Apple Replant Disease

Braun, P.G., Prange, R.K. and Fuller, K.K.
Atlantic Food and Horticulture Research Centre, AAFC, Kentville, Canada

Apple replant disease, caused by a complex of micro-organisms, is a serious problem in many apple growing regions around the world. Broad-spectrum chemical fumigants have been the most effective and widely used control strategy. However, these chemicals pose a threat to the environment and the health of the applicator. A biological control strategy for apple replant disease would be preferable.

The biofumigant Muscodor albus is a fungal endophyte of the cinnamon tree and produces a low concentration of more than 20 volatile organic compounds. While relatively innocuous the combination of volatiles has the ability to kill or suppress the growth of a wide range of fungal and bacterial pathogens.

In a controlled environment study the application of rye grain culture of M. albus to apple replant soil significantly increased the height, and dry weight of roots and shoots of apple seedlings growing in the treated soil. In addition, M. albus had no effect on the colonization of apple roots by beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. The effect of M. albus volatiles on rhizosphere micro-organisms will be discussed.

 

Poster presented at the Symposium (PDF)