NWO Open Technology Grant for Aska Goverse (WUR)

“FLORISH: development of a sustainable & integrated approach for the control of emerging root-knot nematode problems in Chrysanthemum ”

Together  with co-applicant dr. ir. J. Helder, Aska Goverse receives the Open Technology grant. This grant stimulates the development of new technologies that offer solutions to a wide range of social and scientific issues.

Summary

Chrysanthemum ranks among the most important ornamental crops worldwide, whereas Dutch breeders play a leading role globally. Within this sector, there is a strong drive to reduce pesticide use. Unlike many other protected-cultivation crops, chrysanthemum is grown in soil, and effective measures are required to manage root-knot nematodes – a widespread plant-pathogen. The current control practise, steaming, is less harmful than nematicides, but creates a biological vacuum that is quickly recolonized. We propose two plant-based and two soil-based control strategies. This project doesn’t aim to single out one strategy, but envisages a durable multi-pronged approach to sustain healthy chrysanthemum cultivation [source: NWO].