Imagine this scenario with me: you’re examining your fruit trees, several that you’ve been growing for years.Much to your horror, most of your apples have come down with
12.06.2023 - 01:04 / gardenerspath.com / Helga George
Controlling Pathogens With Organic Biocontrol Agent Bacillus amyloliquefaciensBacillus amyloliquefaciens (BAA) is a type of bacterium that is found in soils throughout the world and also on dried foods and fresh produce.
Many strains of these bacteria enhance plant growth and inhibit plant pathogens, greatly improving the health of plants. They colonize the roots of plants and reduce plant disease by both direct and indirect action.
BAA strains produce a number of chemicals, including a number of antibiotics that inhibit the germination of fungal spores and the growth of the fungi.
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In addition, the bacteria stimulate the plant to activate their natural resistance mechanisms. This provides additional control of pathogens.
Many strains of BAA are so helpful to plants that they are known as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) – a designation for powerful bacteria that improve plant health.
In this guide, we will review how Bacillus amyloliquefaciens can improve plant health and provide tips on how to use these biocontrol agents.
BAA Strains Vary in Their PropertiesJust like the closely related bacteria Bacillus subtilis, B. amyloliquefaciens is composed of many different strains, which vary in their production of antibiotics and ability to colonize plants.
Research has been conducted on a dizzying array of strains, but most commercial formulations are comprised of a few key strains, especially D747 (often sold as Double Nickel or Stargus).
The powerhouse strain FZB42 that is sold commercially has been found to be a different species of Bacillus and is now known as B. venezensis.
How Can BAA Help Your Garden?The
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