Understanding the mode of action of phosphite in avocado for enhanced management of Phytophthora root rot (AV19005)

What's it all about?

This project is improving industry understanding of how the fungicide phosphite is metabolised by avocado trees infected with Phytophthora root rot, so that applications of phosphite can become more targeted and effective, resulting in healthier and more productive orchards.

Through this research, the project team is answering the following questions:

• How does phosphite activate avocado defences to inhibit Phytophthora root rot?
• How does phosphite move around within the avocado tree?
• What is the optimal timing of phosphite applications to achieve maximum efficacy as a crop protectant with acceptable fruit residues?
• What are the optimal application regimens specific to different growing regions?

This project will complement existing research into Phytophthora root rot conducted by levy-funded project Improving avocado orchard productivity through disease management (AV16007).