Understanding threats to Brassica crops: A case study
The study was located at The Farm at Sunnyside, an organic farm in Washington Virginia. It focuses on the threats facing Brassica crops at this site, but are also common throughout Brassica species around the world. Taking place during the month of October, we were able to monitor the progression of black rot over the rainy and wet season. Herbivory threats were also noted, but seemed to have less of an impact on the crops than black rot disease. For more information concerning our project and results, use the buttons below for each variable.
Black Rot.
A condition common within Brassica crop types around the world which is caused by a form of bacteria (Xanthomonas campestris pv. Campestris). It is typically found in the wet part of the growing season and is recognizable by the characteristic black veins and necrosis of leaves.
Our Case Study.
Herbivory.
A problem faced by most vegetable farmers, as pest species devour portions of crop harvests. Typically observed as large areas of missing leaf matter, groundhogs and other pest species are seen as a nuisance speices and removed from the area.
Results.
The outcomes of the month-long survey period, including camera trap images and maps depicting the spread of disease and herbivory. Shown in this way, with a list of crop varieties, it is possible to see the susceptibility of certain species to different threats.
To the left is a aerial image of The Farm at Sunnyside, where the study took place. Only 40 of the 422 acres on property is used for agriculture production. The study took place in the main Brassica crop field.
Above is a diagram of the different Brassica types present within our study plot on The Farm at Sunnyside. The surveyed plot was 208 by 40 feet and contained Black Kale, Collards, Curly Red Kale, Daikon Radish, Gai lan, Green Cabbage, Kohlrabi, and Red Russian Kale. Each of these responded differently to both disease and herbivory. The wildlife habitat present in our study site is also visable as a mottled brown area.