Prospecting for Biocontrols

Dr. Kong • March 14, 2025

It is neither economically sustainable nor environmentally acceptable to make multiple fungicide applications to protect boxwood, a key nursery crop and iconic landscape plant, from boxwood blight. 

This webinar highlights some of the successes at Virginia Tech in the search for potent biological agents for blight control. Dr. Kong will describe the biocontrol development process: how and where candidate microorganisms were discovered, and how their antagonistic activities against the boxwood blight pathogen Calonectria pseudonaviculata were measured in the laboratory—followed by evaluation on whole plants in controlled environments and then in field trials in western North Carolina. Some biocontrol agents have not only shown blight control at similar levels to the fungicide standard but have also substantially promoted boxwood growth. 

Dr. Kong will also share the ongoing research with Burkholderia SSG, the top-performer in her lab’s trials. These studies provide an example of the exploration of the microbial world as a source of powerful tools to promote plant health and production. 

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By Dr. Fulya Baysal-Gurel May 30, 2024
This educational session aims to equip nursery producers, gardeners, and plant health professionals with vital knowledge and strategies to combat the pervasive threat of Calonectria pseudonaviculata, the fungus responsible for the devastating boxwood blight. Boxwood blight, a serious concern for the horticulture industry, jeopardizes the health and viability of boxwood plants, significantly impacting the ornamental plant market. Addressing this issue, the webinar will delve into the critical control points in nursery production, emphasizing effective sanitation practices to prevent and manage the spread of this disease. Attendees of the webinar can expect to gain: An understanding of the lifecycle and spread of Calonectria pseudonaviculata. Insight into the latest research and developments in boxwood blight control. Practical guidance on implementing effective sanitation and preventive measures in nursery production. Strategies for identifying critical control points to mitigate the risk of boxwood blight in their operations. This webinar is essential for anyone involved in the cultivation, care, or management of boxwood 
By Dr. Fred Gouker January 31, 2024
The Boxwood Blight Insight Group (BBIG) invites horticulturists, researchers, and plant enthusiasts to join an insightful webinar titled, "In the Lab and the Landscape at the National Arboretum: Boxwood Genomics and AI Solutions for Blight Detection and Protection." This webinar will offer an exploration of the latest boxwood research from the National Arboretum, with a focus on the intersection of boxwood breeding, genomics, and machine learning. Webinar Highlights: Cutting-edge Genomics Research: Learn about the latest developments in boxwood genomics and breeding strategies aimed at identifying genetic resistance to boxwood blight. Gain insights into current methodologies and breakthroughs at the National Arboretum. AI Solutions for Blight Detection: Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) is enhancing the detection and protection of boxwood in both laboratory settings and natural landscapes. The seminar will showcase innovative AI methods for recognizing and combatting boxwood blight, presenting a glimpse into the future of plant disease management. Engaging Presentation: Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions fostering a collaborative environment for learning and idea exchange.
By Dr. James LaMondia August 23, 2023
The Boxwood Blight Insight Group is pleased to host the next webinar in their on-going efforts to assist the industry manage boxwood health in the nursery and in landscapes.
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