Comparison of field performance of citrus trees on rootstocks propagated by seedlings, cuttings, and tissue culture

Comparison of field performance of citrus trees on rootstocks propagated by seedlings, cuttings, and tissue culture

Report Date: 04/12/2021
Project: 18-028C   Year: 2021
Category: Plant Improvement
Author: Ute Albrecht
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

 1. Please state project objectives and what work was done this quarter to address them: Objective 1. Investigate effects of rootstock propagation method and the interaction with rootstock on root structure, root growth, and tree performance during the first 3 years of growth in the field.Bimonthly root growth measurements with the minirhizotron imaging system continued in all trials.  Leaves were collected in trials 2 and 3 for CLas detection; samples are being analyzed. Trials 2 and 3 third-year horticultural data collection (tree size, health ratings, etc.) was completed. We  also counted and collected fruits for fruit quality analysis and yield determination in trials 2 and 3. There were very few fruit in trial 2, but fruit quality analysis was completed for trial 3.   We are working on completing the analysis of the year 3 data of trials 2 and 3 to be included in a publication of all three years of data.   Objective 2. Investigate if trees on rootstocks propagated by tissue culture or cuttings differ in susceptibility to Phytophthora-induced decline or wind-induced blow-over compared with trees on rootstocks propagated by seed.Monthly root growth measurements with the rhizotron imaging system continued. We are still working on the PCR and ELISA assays. 2. Please state what work is anticipated for next quarter: We will continue with our minirhizotron root imaging and other data collection. We will continue with the statistical analysis and interpretation of all data collected. A Citrus Industry Magazine article will be prepared sumarizing findings of this project.  3. Please state budget status (underspend or overspend, and why): Approximately 65% of funds have been spent, which is somewhat underspent due to Covid-19 related complications that affected research, travel, and hiring of personnel.  


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