US Company Bioworks Inc. have released a new ‘living fungicide’ called PlantSchield® for controlling root and foliage diseases in the greenhouse on ornamental crops and vegetables. The organism involved is a patented hybrid strain of Trichoderma harzianum, starin T22. In the root environment, this organism grows on roots and root hairs and on the surfaces of surrounding soil particles. It actively attacks Phythium, Fusarium and Rhizoctonia before they reach the root system. The microrganism also enhances root growth by releasing compounds that make nutrients more available. Application is made in a granular form added to the substrate or as a drench in irrigation water. When the same product is sprayed onto the foliage, it acts to control Botrytis and powdery mildew and it suppresses downy mildew. The product has no toxic effects either on the plant or on insect beneficials or on humans. In the USA it has been authorized by the EPA also for use in vegetable production and is now being used by organic growers. www.bioworksbiocontrol.com E-mail: wjfoster@bioworksbiocontrol.com