Can Diversifying Orchards Lead to Higher Disease Losses?

This project examines pathogen populations within mixed orchards to evaluate potential for cross infection of the apple bitter rot pathogen (Colletotrichum spp.) among apples, blueberries, peaches, and strawberries. Each year, 10%–50% of Kentucky’s apple crop is affected by bitter rot, the state’s most devastating fruit rot of apple. During rainy years and in non-sprayed orchards, these losses can be higher. This project will compare pathogen populations that cause bitter rot and anthracnose fruit rots within such orchards. The resulting data will be used to develop new Kentucky-specific recommendations. Our outreach component will result in publications, grower meetings, and field days.