Introduction of beneficial bacteria to grapevines as a possible control of phytoplasma associated diseases

The possible role of endophytes as bio-agents for controlling yellows diseases was studied in grapevines and in periwinkle plants. Bacterial isolates from grapevines and insect vector of phytoplasmas were tested. Isolates that showed inhibitory effect in a spiroplasma model system in vitro were identified as various Bacilli and Xanthomonadaceae and further investigated. The isolates were successfully introduced via root dip, stem injection and smeared pricked leaf into ex vitro plantlets and potted plants. Further study is in progress to examine whether one of these isolates can be used as a biocontrol agent against phytoplasmas.