A new
ARS-developed peach rootstock could
offer an alternative to using the pesticide methyl bromide to rid the soil of
nematodes that cause peach tree short life (PTSL).
PTSL is a major problem for peach growers throughout the southeastern United
States. Scientists with USDA’s
Agricultural Research Service developed the new rootstock--in conjunction with
Clemson University researchers--to resist
the ring nematode that leads to PTSL-related tree death.
ARS scientists have recently found that this rootstock also resists the
root-knot nematode, which causes reduced tree growth of young trees.
Called Guardian, the new rootstock is now available at commercial nurseries
as bulk seed for next year’s growing season.
