When a plant disease called downy mildew began destroying New Jersey’s basil crops, farmers faced a choice: give up growing basil or fight back. Partnering with researchers at Rutgers University, farmers and scientists worked together to develop basil varieties that could resist the disease. This collaboration helped protect a crop that is both a livelihood for growers and a favorite across the state and worldwide.

But the fight is not over. New strains of the disease and other emerging plant threats are once again putting basil at risk. What worked before is not enough to protect future harvests. This short trailer for a science-in-action video series captures that ongoing struggle. Filmed in labs, greenhouses, and on working farms, this story demonstrates the partnership between researchers and growers who continue to learn, adapt, and innovate for the future of a beloved crop.

This project was made possible in Rutgers University’s Immersive Learning Through Science Storytelling Research lab. It was funded by the USDA SCRI NIFA Grant 2022-51181-38448 and the Rutgers New Use Agriculture & Natural Plant Products Program. The trailer and web series are featured at the Rutgers University’s U.S. Basil Consortium page.