Containing the antagonistic fungus Trichoderma asperellum strain T34, Asperello T34 Biocontrol has multiple modes of action. On colonized plant roots, it forms a barrier against pathogens and supports healthy root growth. Furthermore, it triggers the plant’s natural defence mechanisms. Finally, it parasitises and actively kills pathogens. The product can be used preventatively to protect ornamentals against major root diseases, including Fusarium, Pythium, Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia.
The trial was carried out with Jim Ellefson, of Woodburn Nursery, in Oregon - on the West Coast of the USA. Owned by the Fessler family since the 1960’s, this 500 acre nursery grows florist grade azaleas and potted nursery stock.
The nursery consists of 120 acres of covered production, of which 56 acres are devoted to florist grade Azaleas. The nursery stock production includes 65 acres of can yard, and 225 acres of pot-n-pot production. In addition, the large farming operation produces wide variety of crops such as Blueberries, Hazelnuts, Grass seed, and various row crops.
The species selected for inclusion in the trial were Blue Star Junipers, notoriously difficult to root, and Siberian Cypress that are particularly prone to Phytophthora and Pythium.
Alongside Asperello T34 Biocontrol, the trial featured three other competing biological products.
“In the past we relied on standard chemical treatments of Subdue and / or Medallion to control root diseases, with mixed results,” says grower Jim Ellefson. “With no previous experience of Asperello T34 Biocontrol, we didn’t know what to expect. We applied Asperello T34 Biocontrol by two drenches at the label rate. We were impressed with its performance, Asprello T34 Biocontrol worked well and clearly achieved the best response − most of the other product representatives that saw the trial agreed Asperello T34 Biocontrol was the most effective.”
“Using Asperello T34 Biocontrol both the Blue Star Junipers and Siberian Cypress rooted very well with minimal losses. All in all, Asperello T34 Biocontrol was easy to work with and achieved the best results in this trial – it outperformed the other biological products. We will definitely keep on using Asperello T34 Biocontrol in the future.”
For more information
Biobest Belgium NV
Ilse Velden 18
2260 Westerlo - Belgium
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