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Plant Pathology Laboratory

The Plant Pathology Laboratory at the Alaska Plant Materials Center provides diagnostic services and disease management support to the PMC and the Division of Agriculture. Information is gathered on disease resistance and management during variety trials. We also perform outreach to growers around the state, including disease surveys, diagnostics and management recommendations.

PMC Programs

 

PMC logo

5310 S Bodenburg Spur
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone: 907-745-4469
Fax: 907-746-1568

Mon. - Fri.
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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Current Projects

Current projects include work on pathogens of apple, garlic, onion, native grasses, peony and potato. We also conduct pathogen testing for tissue culture plantlets and field material of potatoes. This includes testing for multiple potato viruses, as well as bacterial ringrot (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus). Our lab procedures include culturing of bacteria and fungi, microscopic examination, serological assays (antibody-based testing) and nucleic-acid based testing.

pcr
endo   botrytis

Plant Diseases

Plants are affected by disease in many ways, including: reductions in yield, quality, aesthetics, marketability and longevity. Disease may be caused by bacteria, fungi, oomycetes, nematodes, parasitic plants, viruses and abiotic factors such as nutrient stress or environmental conditions. Some disease-causing organisms are transmissible through seed or other propagative material. Disease is often thought of as a triangle consisting of a susceptible host, virulent pathogen and favorable environment. Inclusion of a time element creates a pyramid. Changing any of these factors influences disease development and how much damage occurs.

disease triangle

peony ringspot   cucumber

For More Information Contact:

Todd Steinlage
Plant Pathologist/Agronomist
907-745-8138

Email todd.steinlage@alaska.gov