Marina Gutierrez's research project: using citrus oils for pathogen control

Marina Gutierrez, one of our graduate students, is currently evaluating the efficacy of using nanoencapsulated citrus oils to control strawberry pathogens that cause Botrytis fruit rot and powdery mildew. Pictured is the detached fruit assay process in which berries are dipped into various citrus oil treatments, artificially inoculated with Botrytis cinerea, and then incubated for four days. These berries are then visually assessed to determine disease severity.