Location: Physiology and Pathology of Tree Fruits Research
Project Number: 2094-21220-003-021-N
Project Type: Non-Funded Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Apr 1, 2026
End Date: Mar 31, 2031
Objective:
To develop and evaluate orchard management systems that optimize fruit yield and quality (in apples and cherries) through sustainable soil health management practices. Specific project goals include identifying soil health best management practices that will 1) reduce fruit disorders related to nutrient uptake and water/plant stress, 2) conserve water and buffer environmental stress, and 3) provide long-term sustainable management for replant disease.
Approach:
The ARS investigator will conduct annual fall samplings of root and rhizosphere soil from apple and cherry sites, analyze microbial community composition from rhizosphere soil, screen roots for lesion nematode (Pratylenchus penetrans), and perfom qPCR-based quantification of replant-specific pathogens present in root tissue. The ARS investigator will also provide data/figures and results interpretation for annual reports, attend annual meetings with stakeholder advisory group, and participate in project-associated outreach activities.