fungus

Research identifies new fungi causing ugly disease in peonies

By Seth Truscott, College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences PULLMAN, Wash. – Pacific Northwest farmers have found success growing peonies for a thriving global market. But a devastating fungus called Botrytis is limiting market growth and profits for Northwest farmers.

Researcher fights fungus in apples, pears under storage

By Seth Truscott, College of Agricultural, Human & Natural Resource Sciences WENATCHEE, Wash. – Delving into the secrets of the molds and fungi that can wreck a good apple or pear, Achour Amiri can be found working in packing rooms and warehouses throughout central Washington this time of year.

Identifying grapevine fungus may help fight disease

By Erika Holmes, Viticulture & Enology PULLMAN, Wash. – Researchers at Washington State University have documented seven fungal species that cause cankers in grapevines. These new findings could reduce the incidence of grapevine trunk disease in Washington vineyards by preventing the problem before it becomes widespread.

Northwest sees morel shroom boom

By Linda Weiford, WSU News PULLMAN, WASH. – Morels, wild mushrooms prized for their depth of flavor, are enjoying a banner year in much of the Pacific Northwest. Not only did they appear early, but there are lots of them and they are good quality, according to a mushroom expert at Washington State University.

Researchers produce jet fuel compounds from fungus

By Tina Hilding, Voiland College of Engineering & Architecture RICHLAND, Wash. – Washington State University researchers have found a way to make jet fuel from a common black fungus found in decaying leaves, soil and rotting fruit. The researchers hope the process leads to economically viable production of aviation biofuels in the next five years.

Wet springs may be affecting ponderosa pine health

By Rachel Webber, College of Agricultural, Human & Natural Resource Sciences SPOKANE, Wash. – What’s wrong with my ponderosa pine trees? Are they dying? Why are the needles turning brown and reddish? Forestry experts have received several inquiries about ponderosa pine tree health this spring, so if you’re asking these questions, you are not alone.

Illness-causing fungus spreads to Washington state

By Linda Weiford, WSU News PULLMAN, Wash. – A fungus found in semiarid parts of the Southwest that sometimes launches a lethal illness has been identified for the first time in Washington state soil, leading public health officials and an internationally known fungal expert at Washington State University to believe the organism is quietly spreading […]