Bioprotection for foliar diseases and disorders of radiata pine: Project overview May 2020 to December 2021

Abstract

Foliar diseases and disorders are the most significant cause of economic loss for the New Zealand Forestry industry. To alleviate losses caused by existing diseases and to reduce potential impacts of biosecurity threats, ongoing work is being conducted to establish a long-term symbiotic relationship between Pinus radiata (radiata pine) and other forestry tree species, and a beneficial microbe, Trichoderma. Trichoderma fungi can induce a broad-spectrum activity response from their host plants, enhancing the speed and strength of the plant’s response to diseases. Trichoderma has also been shown to stimulate growth of plants. The products of this research project will be Trichoderma inoculated forestry tree species, with enhanced growth and improved foliar health, potential protection against biosecurity incursions, as well as reduced chemical application in nurseries and plantations.