Directed research – Evaluation of different trunk injection devices and oxytetracycline formulations for efficacy against HLB, phytotoxicity, and feasibility

Directed research – Evaluation of different trunk injection devices and oxytetracycline formulations for efficacy against HLB, phytotoxicity, and feasibility

Report Date: 10/13/2023
Project: 22-001   Year: 2023
Category: Horticultural & Management
Author: Ute Albrecht
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

1. Please state project objectives and what work was done this quarter to address them: Objectives: 1) Test the efficacy of different injection devices, 2) Determine the most effective formulation of OTC, 3) Determine the best month of injection and most appropriate OTC concentration based on tree size.    Trial 1: SW FL(Duda) – 8-year-old Valencia/Carrizo.    Trial 2: SW FL (Graves Bros) – 8-year-old Valencia/Kuharske.        Trial 3: East coast (Graves Bros) – 9-year-old Valencia/sour orange.    Trial 4: East coast (Graves Bros) – 4-year-old Valencia/x639.      Trial 5: Central ridge (King Ranch) – 4 year-old OLL8/x630 Leaf CLas detection analyses are in progress. Leaves were collected for nutrient analysis (in progress). Trunk injury/wounding was assessed in each trial. August and September injections were conducted in trials 4 and 5. September injections were conducted in trial 1.   Selected information from these trials was presented at several industry events and conferences, including the Citrus Expo, Packinghouse Day, ASHS, and the International Citrus and Beverage Conference. Research findings were also disseminated in Citrus Industry magazine and through the UF/IFAS citrus podcast.  2. Please state what work is anticipated for next quarter:We will conduct tree size measurements. CLas titer analysis will continue. Fruit drop and tree health will be monitored.     3. Please state budget status (underspend or overspend, and why):The budget is on track although it may appear to be underspent as a large portion of funds are intended to be used for fruit OTC analysis at the USDA National Science Lab in Gastonia, NC, and for fruit quality analysis in 2024.   


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