Green & Unseen: Exploring the Hidden Lives of Plants and Microbes

Plants form the foundation of our society, but there is a constant battle to keep them healthy. Understanding and managing the pathogens affecting plants is crucial for sustainable food production and leads to a greater appreciation of our world.

Tiny microbes consisting of bacteria and fungi, cover plants inside and outside. Plants have evolved with their microbial partners to acquire food, water and receive protection from pathogens. When these relationships are disrupted or broken, plants may get sick or die. Christina's research explores these intricate plant-microbial relationships, whether they are beneficial or detrimental to the plant.