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Government of South Australia SARDI - South Australian Research and Development Institute

Dr Trevor Wicks

Senior Research Scientist, Horticulture PathologyTrevor Wicks

Phone: + 61 8 8303 9563
Email: trevor.wicks@sa.gov.au

 

Roles and expertise:

  • Diagnosis and control of diseases in fruit and vegetable crops.
  • Chemical and biological control of diseases in fruit and vegetable crops.
  • Chemical control of grape diseases.
  • Fungicide  evaluation on fruit and vegetable crops.

Experience:

With over 30 years experience in the control of fruit and vegetable diseases, Trevor heads SARDI’s Horticultural Plant Pathology team. He is recognised globally by other researchers, chemical companies and growers for his practical knowledge and accessibility.

An applied researcher, Trevor’s research strength lies in his ability to diagnose diseases and develop strategies for their control. He is equally adept at conveying research results to end-users. His aptitude for cutting edge science and making solutions accessible has led to industry recognition including an award for the prestigious national Graham Gregory prize for excellence in horticulture. Evidence of global recognition is the regular stream of overseas scientists choosing to spend their sabbaticals in the horticulture pathology team, under Trevor’s watchful eye.

Among Trevor’s research accomplishments are:

  • Identifying Eutypa dieback of vines in SA
  • Discovering the previously unknown over-wintering mechanism of the disease
    powdery mildew, enabling better control of the disease
  • Developing optimal spray regimes for powdery mildew and downy mildew in grape vines
  • A major role in research leading to widespread use of phosphonic acid to
    eradicate downy mildew in grape vines
  • Discovering resistance to the chemical benlate used to control apple scab and
    blue mould in pears.