Optimization of inoculation methods for root pathogenic fungi in tomato and cucumber greenhouse productions​

Root pathogenic fungi represent a major economic loss for greenhouse production. Greenhouses controlled environment , combined with inadequate crop management, can promote conditions conducive to the development of root rots, making their control a key issue. The objective of the project is to develop a reliable and reproducible inoculation techniques for the root pathogens Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and Pythium aphanidermatum. These pathogens were selected because they commonly affect the two most important greenhouse vegetable crops in Quebec, tomatoes and cucumbers. The project will evaluate several inoculation techniques and select the two most effective for each pathogen. These methods will then be optimized in research greenhouses and repeated over time to ensure reproducibility. The development of these infection systems will facilitate the study of root pathogens and the evaluation of alternative biological repression methods using control agents, particularly via bacterial agents.