A Fast-Spreading Crop Infection
Bacterial canker is a serious infection that can cause major economic losses. All it takes is a small cut or opening for the bacteria to make its way into the plant’s vascular system and proliferate. It easily spreads from one plant to the next, meaning that if one is infected, those around it need to be removed. Once bacterial canker has settled in the soil, in plant debris or on machinery, it can survive for years. In other words, it’s nearly impossible to eradicate at this stage.
Potential Solutions Ahead
A recent research project conducted by Laval University examined the antibacterial potential of sugar maple leaf extracts against bacterial canker of tomato. Geraniin is a phenolic compound found in some plants, including sugar maple, which is believed to limit the development of bacteria by altering its cell walls. Foliar spray applications using specific concentrations were found to reduce the percentage of visibly affected fruits and the size of lesions. Although these results are promising, further testing is required under field conditions, where factors such as rain could alter the compound’s effects.
Given that there are few available options to control bacterial diseases, any potential solution is great news—especially when it stems from the ingenious Quebec research community and harnesses something as iconic as the maple leaf. This discovery is a celebration of our natural heritage!
Sources :
• Plant Protection Warning Network. (2024). Agriréseau. • • Valérie Tremblay. (2023). Évaluation du potentiel de pulvérisation d’extraits de feuille d’érables à sucre pour ses effets antibactériens contre le chancre bactérien de la tomate (Assessing the antibacterial potential of foliar sprays of sugar maple leaf extract against bacterial canker of tomato). Laval University. . • • “Feuilles d’érable antibactériennes” (Antibacterial maple leaves). Aired in 2023. La Semaine Verte, CBC, Radio-Canada.