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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Corvallis, Oregon » Horticultural Crops Research Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #301863

Title: Pathogen-tested, or certified planting material

Author
item Martin, Robert
item TZANETAKIS, I - University Of Arkansas

Submitted to: Encyclopedia of Agriculture and Food Systems
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/1/2014
Publication Date: 8/1/2014
Citation: Martin, R.R., Tzanetakis, I.E. 2014. Pathogen-tested, or certified planting material. In: Van Alfen, N.K., editors. Encyclopedia of Agriculture and Food Systems. 2nd edition. San Diego, CA: Academic Press. p. 304-312.

Interpretive Summary: Certification programs have been developed to provide plant material that meets a predetermined level of plant health. The primary objective of these programs is to limit pathogen incidence in plant material in order to minimize losses by growers. For many fruit and nut crops plantings are expected to remain productive for years or decades, thus, starting with plants of high health status is essential. The components of certification programs in terms of plant health will be outlined, along with the benefits of harmonizing these programs where possible to facilitate trade in plants without increasing trade in plant pathogens.

Technical Abstract: Certification programs have been developed to provide plant material that meets a predetermined level of plant health. The primary objective of these programs is to limit pathogen incidence in plant material in order to minimize losses by growers. For many fruit and nut crops plantings are expected to remain productive for years or decades, thus, starting with plants of high health status is essential. The components of certification programs in terms of plant health will be outlined, along with the benefits of harmonizing these programs where possible to facilitate trade in plants without increasing trade in plant pathogens.