Effect of Seed Piece Inoculation with Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria on Populations ofErwinia carotovoraon Potato Roots and in Daughter Tubers

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Abstract
The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to potato seed pieces prior to planting resulted in significantly reduced root zone populations of E. carotovora (Ec) in field trials. The percentage of daughter tubers infested naturally with Ec from plants treated with PGPR also was significantly reduced. Reductions resulted from inoculations with PGPR strains singly or in mixtures of 2 or more strains and were observed in 3 distinct geographic areas. PGPR may be useful in management of potato blackleg and soft rot diseases. A modified medium developed for Erwinia spp. was more sensitive than McConkey-pectate medium. This medium eliminated pectolytic pseudomonads that can interfere with development of colonies of pectolytic Erwinia spp.