Title: Biomass and Natural Fumigant Production with Renewable Brassica Crops
PI(s) : Dong Wang (2005)
Dept :
Funding Source : IREE
Summary
Soils are naturally infested with insects, weeds, and plant diseases. Modern day agriculture has relied heavily on synthetic chemicals to control these plant pests. Growing Brassica crops as a green manure or cover crop has been tested in some production systems as a means of suppressing plant pathogens. In this exploratory study, the researchers will measure biomass and natural fumigant production from Brassica crops and provide a feasibility assessment for disease control in Minnesota potato production. The project is aimed at developing environmentally-sound natural chemicals from renewable sources.
Description
Project Deliverables:
Biomass production of the candidate Brassica crops. The same growth condition would ensure a meaningful side-by-side comparison for biomass accumulation. Potential rate of natural fumigant ITC production from Brassica crops measured systematically and expressed on unit biomass basis. Effect of natural ITC fumigant produced by selected Brassica crops on suppression of potato vascular colonization by Verticillium dahliae.