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Description

Alfalfa is the third most valuable crop in the United States and is commonly grown in South Dakota. It is used as a protein-rich feed for livestock, a cover crop that protects against soil erosion, and a natural fertilizer because of its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. According to the USDA 2021 Crop Production Summary, South Dakota ranks third in the US for newly seeded acres, and alfalfa seedlings are highly susceptible to disease. Oomycete pathogens are arguably the most economically important pathogens causing negative effects on alfalfa field establishment and yield. These root rotting pathogens (Aphanomyces euteiches and Pythium spp.) can cause seed rot, reduce root development, and diminish stand establishment. Oomycete pathogens that inhabit the soil can remain present and pathogenic as oospores for many years regardless of soil conditions. Seed rot is a major issue, forcing growers to spend a substantial amount of money to replant stands. Recent research tested the management strategy of using fungicidal treatment to inhibit these pathogens. These chemical treatments were unsuccessful against many of these pathogens in field studies (Smith, 2014). In this study, alfalfa root rotting pathogen isolates from South Dakota fields and the USDA were evaluated for sensitivity to biological control treatments. A biological control is the addition of a natural microbial predator to a inhibit the growth of a pathogen or pest. This research will identify additional management strategies for South Dakota alfalfa diseases and provide growers with the information necessary to make educated decisions to increase yields and maximize their profits.

Publication Date

2022

Assessing Commercial Biological Control Agents for Activity Against South Dakota Alfalfa Pathogens

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