On-farm Colonization of tomatoes by Mycorrhizal Fungi, phase 2

2009 Annual Report for ONE09-109

Project Type: Partnership
Funds awarded in 2009: $8,307.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2010
Region: Northeast
State: Maine
Project Leader:
Frank Wertheim
UMaine Cooperative Extension

On-farm Colonization of tomatoes by Mycorrhizal Fungi, phase 2

Summary

2009 Study

In 2009 we conducted a study of both on-farm produced, and commercially available mycorrhizae innoculum, and their potential to boost production in field grown tomatoes at two sites: Wolf Pine Farm, an organic CSA located in Alfred, Maine; and Highmoor Farm Maine Experiment Research Station, located in Monmouth.

Objectives/Performance Targets

Determine whether we could improve yield and/or quality of tomato fruit through inoculation of the seedlings with mycorrhizal fungi.

Accomplishments/Milestones

In 2009 we had the unfortunate experience of total crop failures due to Late Blight, Phytophthora infestans, and therefore were unable to collect any meaningful data.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

We received an extension on this research project for 2010 and will be repeating the study with leeks, a commercially important crop for Maine farmers, which also has a low pest profile.

Collaborators:

Dr. Mark Hutton

mark.hutton@maine.edu
Vegetable Specialist
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
P.O. Box 179
Monmouth, ME 04259
Office Phone: 2079332100
Amy Sprague

amy.sprague@wolfpinefarm.com
Farmer
259 Mouse Lane Alfred
Alfred, ME 04002
Office Phone: 2073242357
Website: http://www.wolfpinefarm.com
Dr. David Douds

ddouds@errc.ars.usda.gov
Research Scientist
USDA-ARS Eastern Regional Research Center
600 E. Mermaid Lane
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
Office Phone: 2152336421
Dr. David Handley

david.handley@maine.edu
Vegetable and Small Fruit Specialist
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
P.O. Box 179
Monmouth, ME 04259
Office Phone: 2079332100