Exploring interactions and benefits of novel microbial biological products in blueberry propagation

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The Institute for Sustainable Horticulture (ISH) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University will partner with Inocucor Technologies Inc. to explore the mode of action and interaction with native soil microbes of their novel microbial product Synergro, in propagation of high bush blueberries. ISH brings its experience with microbial bioproducts and horticultural crops and its long association with the blueberry industry, the major berry crop in British Columbia. Inocucor's microbial product has demonstrated growth promotion activity on a number of crops, but little is known about effects on an existing microbial population or the effects of an existing population on the efficacy of the product. This study will compare the growth promotion value of Inocucor's original Synergro product and a new cell free formulation, with and without one common soil fungus (Trichoderma) and a native mix of microbes commonly found in healthy soil or used in biopesticide products. Increasing numbers of new microbial products are reaching the market with little study of these interactions. This project will give Inocucor valuable information on their products interaction with native soil microbes while determining its value to high bush blueberry propagation. This project will benefit Inocucor and the BC blueberry growers with local information about a potentially valuable bioproduct. Kwantlen will benefit from expanding its ability to support companies developing environmentally protective bioproducts while carrying out relevant research for a major industry in its region, and training students and new grads in a dynamic area of new horticultural technology. **