Biological fungicide for strawberry disease control replacing methyl bromide
A fungal biological control agent proven to combat key strawberry pathogens including Fusarium and Colletotrichum species, offering strawberry producers an effective alternative as methyl bromide fumigant is phased out. Field trials demonstrated 9-15% increases in marketable yields across multiple locations.
Overview
As methyl bromide fumigant is phased out of agricultural use, Southeastern U.S. strawberry producers face increasing challenges controlling devastating fungal pathogens. SCS Agriculture Research has identified and begun validating a fungal biological control organism that targets three major strawberry pathogens: Fusarium sp., Colletotrichum acutatum, and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. This biological control solution offers producers a promising, sustainable alternative to maintain healthy crops and protect yields without relying on the soon-to-be-banned fumigant.
Technical specifications
Key features and validated results:
- Effective against Fusarium sp., Colletotrichum acutatum, and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
- Small-scale experiments demonstrated 20-50% increase in plant survival following disease infection
- Achieved 26-90% increase in plant fresh weight in treated versus untreated plants
- Field trials across three locations produced 9-15% increase in marketable yields
- Supported by lab, greenhouse, and on-farm field trial data
- Backed by both informal industry researcher discussions and formal scientific literature
Technology readiness level
The biological control agent is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development. Proof of concept has been partially established through initial lab, greenhouse, and field experiments, with encouraging results. The next phase involves expanded field trials designed in collaboration with Global Agricultural Development using eStudy Software for data collection, building on existing molecular, laboratory, and greenhouse data. Upon successful validation of field trial results, the project will advance to regulatory pathway investigation involving EPA, USDA, and state-level approvals for commercialization.
About SCS Agriculture - Research
SCS Agriculture is a family-owned organization based in Burlington, North Carolina, that specializes in agricultural research, specialty products, and education. The company provides biological and agricultural research services, including custom research materials and greenhouse trials. Their facilities comprise 6,000 square feet of greenhouse space capable of supporting diverse crops such as corn, soybeans, tomatoes, and hemp, with on-site lab capabilities and technical support for various GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) assays. The organization was founded to address a market need for customizable agricultural research fabrics and has expanded to offer a full range of research, development, and consulting services tailored to specific trial and crop requirements.
By leveraging over 50 years of farming experience, the team supports clients by providing dedicated research space, monitoring, and data collection services. They work with a variety of partners, including educational institutions like Durham Tech and NC State University, to facilitate research and training. The company offers flexible, project-based engagement to help agricultural businesses, researchers, and producers move their initiatives forward. Clients benefit from the team's ability to handle long-term rotations and specific scientific protocols, ensuring that custom research needs are met with hands-on expertise and adaptable infrastructure.
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