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CRDF

In 2009, the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, Inc. (CRDF) was formed to coordinate citrus research funding in the face of huanglongbing (HLB, also known as “citrus greening”). While it addresses the full array of citrus research needs, CRDF has focused on HLB because it represents an existential threat to the Florida citrus industry.

Do you think you have found a tree that is HLB-tolerant?

For several years, CRDF funded a project with UF-IFAS to investigate trees reported by growers as possibly HLB-tolerant. These trees – called “escape” trees – appeared to have the natural capacity to “escape” the ravages of HLB.

The project, led by Dr. Fred Gmitter, pursued countless leads. The process involved taking root and leaf samples, and coming back in a year to see how the tree was doing.

Unfortunately, few leads emerged, but in December of 2021, the “Donaldson” tree was discovered on a USDA property near Clermont. It was clearly infected, but had abundant fruit.

In the aftermath of this discovery and at the encouragement of industry partners, CRDF is re-instituting this program. The details are still being worked out, but if you believe there is a tree on your property that is doing exceptionally well compared to all the others, call us (863-956-8817) and let us know and we will check it out. Let’s hope there are many trees demonstrating natural tolerance!

CRDF Rootstock Trials Call for Grower Cooperators

The Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) is in the planning stage of new field trials with the objective of evaluating the most promising citrus rootstocks in grower cooperator fields, projected to be planted in the spring or summer of 2022. The goal of these new trials will be to identify plant material with the traits needed by growers to realize the highest possible pounds solids per acre and increased tree viability in the HLB era. LEARN MORE »

2022 RFP - CRDF Study on Preharvest Fruit Drop Prevention Using Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs)

The Citrus Research and Development Foundation, Inc. is requesting proposals for a one-year study to evaluate the efficacy of specific treatments of 2,4-D and gibberellic acid applications, alone and in combination, as outlined in the RFP document, to better understand the impacts on fruit yield, fruit quality, fruit drop, canopy health and root density. Proposals must be submitted to catp@citrusrdf.org by 5:00 p.m. Eastern time on Friday, April 22, 2022, on the forms prescribed in the RFP. LEARN MORE »

CRDF FUNDS 10 NEW PROJECTS

The Citrus Research and Development Foundation is pleased to announce 10 new projects resulting from its 2021 RFP have been approved for funding by the Board of Directors through February 22, 2022. CRDF would like to thank all those who submitted Proposals. The list of approved projects can be found at the following link: LEARN MORE »