Lactococcus lactis 47
The group of Lactococcus lactis strains, including the selection line 47, consists of lactic acid bacteria that possess pronounced antagonistic activity against a wide spectrum of phytopathogens. In agronomic practice, these microorganisms are used as biostimulants and elements of biological protection that contribute to improving the soil's microbiological background.
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Lactococcus lactis 47
The primary mechanism of action involves the production of specific metabolites, such as lacticins and organic acids, which suppress the development of mold fungi and bacterial infections. Bacteria colonize the plant rhizosphere, creating a barrier against the penetration of pathogenic organisms.
In addition to protection, members of this group are actively involved in the processes of organic matter humification. They facilitate the transformation of hard-to-reach compounds into easily digestible forms, thereby ensuring sustained nutrition for agricultural crops.
Interaction with the root system enhances the plant's immune response. By activating systemic acquired resistance, these bacteria help crops better cope with abiotic stresses, such as temperature fluctuations or drought.
This group brings together selectively bred strains adapted to survival in the soil environment. Their high enzymatic activity makes them an indispensable tool in organic farming as producers transition to environmentally friendly production methods.
The use of preparations based on Lactococcus lactis 47 is effective against a complex of soil and seed infections that reduce seed germination and crop productivity.
- Fusarium root rots of various cereal and vegetable crops.
- Bacterial spots and rots affecting the aerial parts of plants.
- Various types of molds that hinder seed germination.
- Alternaria lesions commonly found in nightshade and cruciferous plants.
- Phytopathogens that reduce the shelf life of harvested horticultural produce.
The application of the preparations is carried out by treating seeds before sowing or by applying them to the soil via irrigation during the growing season. The concentration of the working solution is selected according to the regulations of the specific biological product manufacturer.
Seed treatment should be conducted in areas protected from direct sunlight. This is critically important, as ultraviolet radiation reduces the viability of the bacterial culture in the hours following application.
In greenhouse conditions, applying the product into the nutrient solution allows for the maintenance of a stable concentration of beneficial bacteria in the substrate. Optimal application timing coincides with the phases of active root system growth.
For foliar fertilization, the application rate is calculated based on the leaf surface area. It is recommended to add stickers (adjuvants) to ensure even coverage and prolonged action of the preparation.
The frequency of application depends on the degree of infection pressure in the field. Usually, two to three treatments per season are sufficient to maintain a stable microbiological balance and protect plants from reinfection.
The main limitation is incompatibility with harsh broad-spectrum chemical fungicides and bactericides. Chemical preparations suppress the activity of beneficial microflora, reducing the effect of the application to a minimum.
The soil temperature regime is crucial for rhizosphere colonization. At extremely low or high temperatures, the efficacy of the strains drops significantly, requiring adjustments to application timing.
The second important factor is soil pH. Although the group possesses some plasticity, sharp changes in acidity can negatively affect the rate of reproduction and the metabolic activity of the bacteria.
The preparations require specific storage conditions, avoiding overheating and freezing of the containers. A breach in packaging integrity leads to a rapid loss of viable cell counts, making the treatment economically inefficient.
Finally, it is necessary to account for the fact that biological products are preventive measures. During epiphytotic outbreaks of disease, their effectiveness may be insufficient without the use of additional plant protection methods.