Sustainable management of chronic wood diseases in grapevine and fruit trees crops
Sustainable management of chronic wood diseases in grapevine and fruit trees crops
a) The research focused on the Esca complex, the most destructive grapevine trunk disease widespread all over the world: vineyards can be affected from the nursery to the full maturity with a decrease in health and longevity, with a reduction of quantity and quality yield in infected plants. The activity is realized on the following research studies: interaction between disease associated pathogens and woody tissues i.e. as type and role in tissue degradation, toxins, ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) production; the activity of innovative (in composition or type of application) and eco-compatible products and beneficial microorganisms; the effect of environmental or meteorological factors on disease incidence and severity over the years. The studies are conducted in an international context of projects and collaborations, promoted and coordinated by the International Council on Grapevine Trunk Diseases (https://icgtd.ucr.edu).
b) Italy is European leader of kiwifruit production, and second in the world only to China. Studies are carried out on a new Actinidia chronic wood disease, which we have identified and investigated for associated pathogens, epidemiological aspects and management. Current research investigates the relationship between woody tissues and pathogens, by the identification, production and effects of phytotoxins produced by the pathogens. These phytotoxins reduce the yield in quantity and, above all, quality (i.e. sugar and acidity), without symptomatic evidence on the fruit.
c) Finally, studies are underway on Fusicoccum peach canker, against whom no effective control strategy has been found so far. The research, investigating the plant wood-pathogen relationship, is verifying the modes of action, the pre-and post-infection efficacy and the persistence of Trichoderma and a fertilizer authorized in organic farming.