2009 Annual Report for ONE09-109
On-farm Colonization of tomatoes by Mycorrhizal Fungi, phase 2
Summary
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:
Vegetable Specialist
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
P.O. Box 179
Monmouth, ME 04259
Office Phone: 2079332100
Farmer
259 Mouse Lane Alfred
Alfred, ME 04002
Office Phone: 2073242357
Website: http://www.wolfpinefarm.com
Research Scientist
USDA-ARS Eastern Regional Research Center
600 E. Mermaid Lane
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
Office Phone: 2152336421
Vegetable and Small Fruit Specialist
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
P.O. Box 179
Monmouth, ME 04259
Office Phone: 2079332100