This research develops synthetic communities of beneficial xylem-inhabiting bacteria to control olive vascular diseases caused by Verticillium dahliae and Xylella fastidiosa. Over 300 bacterial strains were screened for biocontrol traits, and compatible candidates were combined into effective communities. Preliminary plant trials show promising results for sustainable, microbiome-based disease management.

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.