Gray mold in strawberries is increasingly resistant to fungicides due to genetic mutations. This research identifies resistance levels by testing pathogen samples in the lab, allowing growers to choose effective treatments. Ongoing work analyzes resistance trends and integrates DNA tools to optimize spray programs and reduce waste, ensuring healthier harvests.

The research promotes interseeding—planting cover crops alongside cash crops—to help farmers in short-season climates protect soil, retain nutrients, and boost resilience. By identifying optimal planting times, crop mixes, and methods, the work dispels myths about competition and shows that interseeding can improve yields and soil health without compromising crop quality.

This research investigates Trichoderma fungi as a biological control against Armillaria honey fungus, a major plant pathogen with no effective treatment. Forty Trichoderma strains were tested; seven reduced disease in plants and one prevented infection entirely. These findings suggest plants could be inoculated like a “vaccination” to protect forests, crops, and gardens.