Laboratory of phytopathology and plant protection, Katholieke universiteit Leuven (KULEUVEN)

Category : Research organisations
Country : Belgium
Contact name : Josef COOSEMANS
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URL : http://www.kuleuven.ac.be/

The Laboratory of Phytopathology and Plant Protection of the Catholic University of Leuven (KULeuven, Be) focuses his research on epidemiology and control of soil born plant diseases and pests inclusive nematodes. This laboratory had a leading position in the development of soil disinfestation methodology inclusive the use of Methylbromide. The research evolved in solving problems around Bromide residues in vegetables and by adapting novel practices as the use of lower dosages and the use of high density plastic soil cover sheets while applying. On a regular basis international symposium on soil disinfestation were organised in order to look for successful and environmentally favourable alternatives (see publications in Acta Horticulturae 152, 1984; 255, 1989; 382, 1995; 532, 2000).

Actually the research concentrate on alternatives of MB going two ways: research on bio control of nematodes by entomopathogenic fungi and bio control of soil borne fungi using antagonistic fungi capable of maintaining or restoring the biological soil equilibrium, which as a consequence will likely allow to lower the application frequencies even further. The other approach is based on testing new molecules (synthesized or of natural origin) to disinfest soils e.g. the use of Dimethyl disulphide (optimization of mode of application : temperature, humidity, duration).

Writing Date : 2008-06-05
Latest update Date : 2008-06-05