Any experienced gardener has had their fair share of battles with plant pathogens, and it’s reasonable to resort to the toolbox of synthetic fungicides to fight back. However, there are several types of bacteria and fungi that actually help plants. In this focused presentation, Erfan will share a bit about bacteria and fungi, some of the common beneficial types found in the US, their function, and what can be done to promote them.

Erfan Vafaie is an entomology and plant pathology enthusiast. He earned his PhD at Texas A&M University, studying the use of beneficial insects to manage pests of commercially produced poinsettias. He also delivered over 100 trainings and presentations during his time with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Erfan is now employed with BioWorks Inc., a leader in manufacturing and supplying horticultural bio-pesticides in North America.