Vespula pennsylvanica / maculiforna / germanica / vulgaris / squamosa and DolichovespulaThe dog days of summer…fresh water melon, ice cream, p
06.06.2023 - 20:31 / gardenerspath.com / Helga George
Controlling Plant Pathogens With the Biofungicide Bacillus subtilisBacillus subtilis is a species of bacteria that can survive in the soil for long periods. Many strains are highly effective at colonizing plant roots and controlling plant pathogens.
They can act directly against other microbes by producing a variety of antibiotics that affect fungi or bacteria. They can also act indirectly by stimulating the plant to activate its own defense mechanisms, so it can fend off attacking microbes.
This combination of activities results in a powerful biocontrol agent that is sold commercially to inhibit a number of pathogens on many different crops.
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Even better – in addition to its biocontrol activities, B. subtilis helps the plants grow more effectively.
We at Gardener’s Path will explain how these bacteria work in detail and describe how to use them in your garden.
Bacillus Survives Harsh Conditions in the SoilMany types of bacteria die out when the soil dries up and becomes unfavorable for their growth. In contrast, species of Bacillus produce spores that can survive for a long time and tolerate stressful conditions.
As soon as conditions improve, the spores germinate because of various environmental signals.
The ability of the bacteria to survive as spores makes it easier to produce formulations to use to treat plants. The bacteria are much more likely to survive for a long period when they are in the form of spores rather than as free-living bacteria.
After germination, the bacteria have specific sensors to guide them to plants, which they can then colonize. In addition to living on the roots, some strains of B.
Vespula pennsylvanica / maculiforna / germanica / vulgaris / squamosa and DolichovespulaThe dog days of summer…fresh water melon, ice cream, p
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