Michigan State University proposes research against replanting problems

21 Nov 2023
1359

In Michigan, some growers wish to increase the production of sweet cherries for the processed market. However, they face replanting disorder when replacing old trees with new ones, as the old trees may have attracted pathogens and soil-borne diseases over time. This disorder involves plant-parasitic nematodes that are vectors of viruses. Growers usually leave the field fallow or fumigate the soil, but waiting can be expensive and nematodes tend to return after fumigation.

A team from Michigan State University is studying non-fumigating strategies to manage the replanting of sweet cherries. They set up a test orchard funded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture. They test five different treatments, including compost and fungicides, to reduce replanting problems. The trial involves Emperor Francis and Ulster cherries on Mahaleb rootstock, planted in May 2022, with the aim of providing solid recommendations to growers.

The results of the first year show that fumigation increased tree growth, but the combined use of compost and straw effectively prevented the reproduction of parasitic nematodes and favoured beneficial nematodes. This study aims to offer sustainable alternatives to fumigation to deal with replanting disorder, with a focus on other stone fruit plants as well.

Yaghoubi Akbar e sua moglie, Razieh Yazdani, researchers from MSU.


Read the full article: Good Fruit Grower

Image: Good Fruit Grower


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

New Field Day of PMG, INIA's breeding program for new Chilean varieties

Breeding Varieties

10 Nov 2023

According to Giovanni Lobos, researcher at INIA, the objective of the activity was to show the progress and status of segregants that could become possible varieties that are adapted to the climate of the Coquimbo Region or other early areas of the country.

The effects of climate change on the flowering of Yoshino cherry trees in Japan

Specialties

02 Jan 2025

A study conducted in Japan analyzed the behavior of the Yoshino cherry tree, collecting data from 1948 to 2024. The aim was to understand the relationships between cold exposure, necessary for dormancy release, and heat required for bud development.

In evidenza

Jujuy leads the way: South America's first fresh cherries harvested in September

Production

07 Oct 2025

On September 30, the first fresh cherries of the season were harvested in Jujuy, Argentina. This historic milestone opens a new production window for export, thanks to advanced agronomic practices, ultra-early cherry varieties, and unique microclimate and ideal local conditions.

Corette rootstocks: the new frontier of modern high-density cherry growing

Rootstocks

07 Oct 2025

The new Corette rootstock series is reshaping cherry cultivation: rusticity, heat and drought resistance, and adaptability to high-density orchards. Cass, Crawford, and Lake offer earliness, fruit quality, yield, and sustainability for a truly competitive cherry future.

Tag Popolari