The Making Of Compost TeasThe Next Generation

Abstract: Compost teas are known to be effective against a wide range of plant pathogens, if appropriately prepared and applied, with most interest being focused on the leaf surface. The selective cultivation of both spore forming and nonspore forming bacterial biological control agents in bulk compost is possible without the need for prior sterilization. The effectiveness of these composts in protecting lettuce plants from attack by Sclerotinia minor was demonstrated in a glasshouse trial, but a follow-up field trial was inconclusive due to low pathogen attack. Regardless of this, the potential for directing the growth of bacteria in compost matrices is demonstrated - possibly tipping the balance towards improved, standardized biocontrol options.