Michigan cherry growers faced a challenging year with cherry leaf spot, a major fungal disease. Frequent rains and fungicide resistance made control difficult, leading to high costs and poor results. Growers who sprayed early and often, ensuring excellent coverage, fared better.
MSU's Research to the Rescue
Michigan State University (MSU) researchers, led by George Sundin, are working to combat fungicide resistance in cherry leaf spot. The fungus produces massive amounts of spores, increasing the chances of resistance development. Several effective fungicides have become obsolete due to resistance, leaving growers with fewer options.
Severe attack of cherry leaf spot (source: Foglie TV - SL FRUIT SERVICE)
Copper as a Promising Solution
MSU trials have shown that certain copper-based fungicides, specifically Badge X2, Badge SC, and Kocide 3000, are effective against cherry leaf spot. Captan, another fungicide, also performed well. Researchers found that not all copper products are equal in efficacy, highlighting the importance of product selection.
Key Takeaways
Read full article on GrowingProduce
07 Nov 2023
In an interview with La Tribuna, Jorge Valenzuela, president of the fruit growers' federation Fedefruta, said that the rains caused losses in early varieties and left growers struggling with waterlogged soil.
12 Mar 2025
A promising approach for the control of SWD (Drosophila suzukii) is the control by means of mass traps, which contain a killing agent and use specific attractants to selectively reduce the population of the target pest.
06 Mar 2026
In Chile, the world leader in cherry exports, an INIA study analyzes the evolution of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae in commercial orchards. The research highlights local adaptation and copper resistance as key factors for integrated management and sustainable production.
06 Mar 2026
Tart cherries, rich in melatonin, tryptophan and polyphenols, may improve sleep and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. A review of seven clinical studies analyzed effects on sleep duration, efficiency and biomarkers, with promising but not consistent results.
