Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

NC140 Minutes 7-9 November 2023 – Executive Summary

55 total in attendance, 48 NC-140 members, representing 22 member states AR, CA, CO, IA, ID, KY, MA, MI, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, UT, VT, WA, WI, WV and 3 cooperating Canadian provinces BC, ON, and NS

• Welcome, introductions, agenda review: Dr. Greg Lang (MI) hosted the meeting for Michigan State University, which took place at 3 locations over the course of the meeting (the MSU Clarksville Research Center [CRC], the MSU Southwest Research & Extension Center/Benton Harbor [SWMREC], and the Haworth Conference Center at Hope College, Holland).
• The agenda and the 2022 minutes were reviewed and approved. The project objectives and timeline were reviewed. Introductions were made by all in attendance, and new members were approved. The 2024 meeting will be held in New Mexico, tentatively during the first or second week of November. The 2025 meeting will be held in Vermont. An update of the NC-140 website also was provided.
• Carolyn Lawrence-Dill (IA), Administrative Advisor, provided a report by Zoom that focused on funding and reporting.
• New and future multi-state project trials (7) and associated project activities were discussed.
• Field tours of various NC140 and associated tree fruit research plots were conducted over the first two days at the CRC (apple, sweet cherry, pear, peach, plum) and SWMREC (tart cherry, peach) research centers.
• The second and third meeting days were held in parallel with the USDA-SCRI Armillaria project scientific and stakeholder group, with joint gatherings for meals and the SWMREC field tour.
• Current multistate trials (7) and associated development of project manuscripts were discussed, as was discussion on reporting and archiving of weather data for each trial site for potential later use in manuscripts and/or analysis.
• Each state and province representative provided an update on their multistate trials and related research projects.

NC-140 Annual Meeting Minutes 7-9 Nov 2023

Holland/Clarksville/Benton Harbor, MI

55 total in attendance, 48 NC-140 members, representing 22 member states AR, CA, CO, IA, ID, KY, MA, MI, NC, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, UT, VT, WA, WI, WV and 3 cooperating Canadian provinces BC, ON, and NS

Tuesday, 7 Nov

The meeting was called to order at the MSU Clarksville Research Center (CRC) by Greg Lang (MI) who welcomed the group. Participants introduced themselves.

Brent Black (UT) moved to accept the agenda as presented, Curt Rom (AR) seconded, and the motion was approved.

Essie Fallahi (ID) moved to accept the minutes from the 2022 meeting without revision, Greg Reighard (SC) seconded, and the motion was approved.

Dr. Carolyn Lawrence-Dill (IA), the NC140 Administrative Advisor, provided a report by Zoom that focused on funding and reporting.

Lang reviewed the project objectives and timeline for renewal (2026).

Root biologist Miranda Haus (MSU) was introduced via Zoom, and she gave an overview of her work in root architecture as related to disease. Possible collaborations with the Armillaria project group were mentioned.

New members were then formally approved:

Curt Rom (AR): Fallahi (ID) moved, Stefano Musacchi (WA) seconded; motion passed.

Tim Hartman (TX), stone fruit specialist/extension; Reighard (SC) moved, Astrid Volder (CA) seconded; motion passed.

Brent Arnuldssen (KY), new faculty at UK; Ioannis Minas (CO) moved, Greg Peck (NY) seconded; motion passed.

Shanthanu Krishna Kumar (PA) new faculty at Penn State; Todd Einhorn (MI) moved; Jim Schupp (PA) seconded; motion passed.

Becky Weipz (WI), superintendent of the Univ. of Wisconsin’s Peninsular Agricultural Research Station; Schupp (PA) moved; Fallahi seconded; motion passed.

Xiaochen Yuan (IA) as substitute for Suzanne Slack who could not attend; (unknown) moved and seconded; motion passed.

Fallahi (ID) announced plans to retire and asked about the potential to remain interactive with the project as there is currently no other representation for Idaho. He noted the possibility to oversee new trials that could be hosted by progressive growers if UI does not accept them. The challenges and benefits of such cooperation/collaboration and/or trial hosting with commercial growers was discussed, with members being favorable to such an arrangement in this case as appropriate if a commitment to imposition of planting, management, and data collection protocols can be arranged.

Late introductions were made of Emily Lavely (MSU extension educator) and Jackie Perkins (MSU tree fruit integrator).

On behalf of Shengrui Yao (NM) who could not attend, Rob Heyduck (NM) discussed the possible meeting sites for 2024 annual meeting in NM. Santa Fe was identified as the most central location for tree fruit tours that also has suitable lodging and meeting facilities, as well as plentiful food options.

The 2025 meeting will be hosted by Terence Bradshaw (VT), with suggested possibilities to meet in 2026 in GA, VA, KY or CA (to be determined in 2024-25).

Jon Clements (MA) gave a website update and asked everyone to talk to their AES director to get on the official multistate list.

New and future trials were discussed:

2023 ‘Porter’s Perfection’ cider apple trial was discussed by Peck (NY), planted by 15 institutions @ 16 sites, with 7 rootstocks X 3 trees/rep X 5 blocks. Trees should crop heavily, and fruit size is not a concern for cider production.

2025 Peach rootstock X training system trial was discussed by Minas (CO), with 3 systems (SSA/Bi-axe/Quad-axe) @ 3/6/12 ft spacing, respectively, 150 trees/location. The challenge of tree propagation and shipping to certain areas with differing import regulations, such as Canada (fumigation residues) and California, was discussed, including potential propagation in Canada.

A potential 2025 Apple rootstock/decline/cold hardiness trial was discussed by Clements (MA), Lee Kalcsits (WA), and Jason Londo (NY).

A potential 2025 or 2026 apple rootstock trial was discussed by Kalcsits (WA), comprised of 2 irrigation factors X 5 rootstocks X 5 scions.

Kristi MacCready (MSU, George Sundin lab) discussed microbial ecology, the succession of microbial communities during the lifespan of an orchard, and noted that microbiomes respond to drought stress.

2026 cherry rootstock trial planning was discussed by Black (UT) for tart cherries (potential sites are UT, MI, VT, CO, WI, NY, ON) and Kelsey Galimba (OR) for sweet cherries (potential sites are CO, MI, NY, BC, CA, OR, WA).

A possible 2026 apricot rootstock trial was discussed by Kathryn Carter (ON), with potential sites including ON, TX, UT, MI, CO, BC, NS, VT, WA, NY.

Gennaro Fazio (NY) gave an update on new apple rootstock development. He noted virus effects in G935 and Ottawa 3 as a source of virus; reported G41 is not drought resistant; and discussed differences in root- vs. top-expressed dwarfing  genes (DW1 vs DW2). Also new publications in Fruit Quarterly.

Musacchi (WA) discussed the coordination of a new apple rootstock trial, with decisions to be made for scion, possibly ‘Ambrosia’ (potential participants noted were MI, NY, WA, BC).

There was discussion of propagation and nursery challenges, as the nursery industry as a whole is struggling due to cancelled orders and small plants. Discussion included bareroot vs Ellepot propagation and establishment in short season areas, and Spring vs. Fall planting (though Fall dormant shipping is not common now).

During the afternoon, there were field tours of various NC140 and associated tree fruit research plots at the CRC (apple, sweet cherry, pear, peach, plum).

Wednesday, 8 Nov

Lang and Bill Shane (MSU stone fruit extension specialist and peach breeder) welcomed both the NC140 group and the USDA-SCRI Armillaria project group to the SW Michigan Research and Extension Center (SWMREC) before they each convened in separate meeting rooms.

The current status of project trial reports was discussed:

2010 Sweet Cherry rootstocks x training systems: Lang (MI) published the 10-year update in Acta Horticulturae, plans to write up for JAPS submission in 2024.   

2013 Apple rootstocks: Two locations were lost to fire blight. The publication of data from 3 sites is being led by Luis Gonzalez-Nieto (NY).

2014 ‘Honeycrisp’ rootstocks: John Cline (ON, not present) submitted an email note that the paper is in press in JAPS.

2015 Organic ‘Modi’ rootstocks: Bradshaw (VT) took over coordination after Wes Autio retired. The 5-year publication is out, some locations have dropped out.

2017 Peach rootstocks: Minas (CO) noted that a 3 year update was published in Acta Horticulturae, as well as two chapters were contributed to the new CABI Peach book. Minas will lead a 2024 proposal to IFTA on behalf of all trial coordinators for annual partial support of data set collection and analysis.

2017 Tart cherry/Sweet cherry rootstocks: Lang (MI)/Black (UT) will be writing up the 5 year data publications in 2024.  

2019 ‘Buckeye Gala’ rootstocks: Einhorn (MI) will be compiling the 5-year data for preparation/analysis in 2024.

The NC140 and Armillaria groups met jointly for lunch and dinner, as well as the afternoon field tours of various NC140 and associated tree fruit research plots at the SWMREC (tart cherry, peach).

State reports (NS, VT, MA, NY, NJ, WV, CO, OR, WA, BC, ID, UT, OH, MI, ON, WI, IA) began after the field tour.

Thursday, 9 Nov

State reports (PA, KY, NC, CA, SC, AR, TX, MI) continued during the morning.

The meeting adjourned around 10:30 am, allowing participants to pack and plan before a final lunch at noon.

The NC140 Annual Meeting held from November 7th to 9th, 2023, facilitated substantial progress and collaboration among its 55 attendees, representing 48 NC-140 members from 22 member states and 3 Canadian provinces. Hosted by Dr. Greg Lang of Michigan State University across three locations, the meeting commenced with comprehensive agenda review and introductions, affirming the project's objectives and timeline. Notable accomplishments included the approval of new members, discussions on future multi-state project trials, and updates on ongoing trials and associated research projects. Engaging presentations, such as Carolyn Lawrence-Dill's report on funding and reporting and Miranda Haus's insights into root architecture and disease, underscored the breadth of expertise within the consortium.

Short-term outcomes: The meeting generated consensus on key initiatives, fostering a conducive environment for continued collaboration and progress within the NC140 community.

Outputs:

• Approval of new members including Curt Rom (AR), Tim Hartman (TX), Brent Arnuldssen (KY), Shanthanu Krishna Kumar (PA), and Becky Weipz (WI).
• Discussion and planning of seven new and future multi-state project trials spanning various fruit types and research focuses.
• Updates on ongoing trials, including the 'Porter's Perfection' cider apple trial and the 2025 Peach rootstock X training system trial, among others.
• Joint field tours and discussions with the USDA-SCRI Armillaria project group, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Publications

Anthony, B.M., Chaparro, J.M., Prenni J.E., Minas, I.S., 2023. Carbon sufficiency boosts phenylpropanoid biosynthesis early in peach fruit development priming superior fruit quality. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry 196, 1019-1031.

Anthony, B.M., Minas, I.S. 2022. Redefining the impact of preharvest factors on peach fruit quality development and metabolism: A review. Scientia Horticulturae 305: 111390.

Anthony, B.M., Sterle D.G., and Minas, I.S., 2023. Robust non-destructive individual cultivar models allow for accurate peach fruit quality assessment following customization in phenotypically similar cultivars. Postharvest Biology and Technology, 195, 112148

Blanco V and Kalcsits L. 2023. Long-term validation of continuous measurements of stem water potential and trunk diameter indicate different diurnal patterns for pear under water limitations. Agricultural Water Management, 281, 108257.

Bradshaw, T., Autio, W., Blatt, S., Clements, J., Einhorn, T., Elkins, R., Fallahi, E., Francescatto, P., Lordan, J., Minas, I., Peck, G., Robinson, T. and Yao S.. 2023. Performance of ‘Modi®’ apple trees on several Geneva rootstocks managed organically: Five-year results from the 2015 NC-140 Organic Apple Rootstock Trial. Journal of the American Pomological Society 77 (1):14-27.

Bradshaw, T. Question those assumptions: Success with modern orchard systems demands attention to the details. Proc. 2022 New England Vegetable & Fruit Conference. Manchester, NH. https://newenglandvfc.org/proceedings/

Cai, L., Adelberg, J., J. Naylor-Adelberg, G. Schnabel, A. Calle, Z. Li, G. Reighard, K. Gasic, and C. A. Saski. 2023. Transcriptomics reveal the genetic coordination of early defense to Armillaria root rot (ARR) in Prunus spp. Front. Plant Sci. 14:1181153, 15 pp. DOI 10.3389/fpls.2023.1181153

Calle, A., K. Gasic, C. Saski, G. Schnabel, G. Reighard, J. Adelberg, T. Gradziel, T. Mark, and M. Vassalos. 2022.  Progress on breeding for Armillaria Root Rot tolerant rootstocks.  Southeastern Professional Fruit Workers Conference, Nov. 14, 2022, Lake Alfred, FL.  Conference Book of Abstracts, Abstract #37. p. 43.

Casagrande Biasuz, E., Gonzalez Nieto, L. Einhorn, T. and Robinson. T.L. 2023. Long-term Performance of Bosc Pear Trees at Three Planting Densities on Pyrus Rootstocks. Acta Hortic. (in press). ISHS Pear Symposium South Africa.

Casagrande Biasuz, E., Gonzalez, L., Lordan, J., Francescatto, P. and Robinson, T.L. 2023 Training System Affects Long-term Cherry Production in NY State. Acta Hortic. (in press). ISHS Cherry Symposium China.

Casagrande Biasuz E and Kalcsits L. 2023. Rootstock effects on shoot growth, gas exchange, and isotope composition were independent of grafting for apple. Accepted pending revisions. Frontiers in Plant Sciences.

Cline, J. A., B. Black, E. Coneva, W. Cowgill, R. Crassweller, E. Fallahi, T. Kon, M. Muehlbauer, G.L. Reighard, and D.R. Ouellette. 2023. Performance of ‘Fuji’ apple trees on several size-controlling rootstocks in the 2014 NC-140 rootstock trial after eight years. J. Amer. Pomol. Soc. (in press).

Cowgill, W.P.,Jr., J. Clements 2023. Freeze Injury to Apples in Northern New Jersey, New York, and New England. Horticultural News, Volume 103, NO. 3

Cowgill, W.P.,Jr., M. Muehlbauer 2023. 2022 New Jersey Tree Fruit Orchard Production Report and Expansion of the RMA Crop Insurance Program. Horticultral News. Vol 103, NO.2

Devkota, P., A. Iezzoni, K. Gasic, G. Reighard and R. Hammerschmidt. 2023. Rapid in vitro screening of Prunus genotypes for resistance to Armillaria root rot using roots of young rootstocks. HortSci. 58(10):1163-1169. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17196-23

Freundlich, G.E., R.N. Schaeffer, A.S. Tebeau, B.L. Black, C.V. Ransom, D.G. Alston and J.R. Reeve. 2023. Organic Orchard Floor Management in Peach: Effects on Arthropods and Associated Fruit Injury in the Intermountain West. Journal of Economic Entomology. xx:xx Published, 10/11/23. https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toad185 

Gonzalez, L., G. Reig, J. Lordan, M. Miranda Sazo, S.A. Hoying, M.J. Fargione, G.H. Reginato, D.J. Donahue, P. Francescatto, E. Casagrande, G. Fazio, T.L. Robinson. 2022.  Long-term effects of rootstock and tree type on the economic profitability of ‘Gala’, ‘Fuji’ and ‘Honeycrisp’ orchards performance. Scientia Horticulturae 318, 2023, 112129, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2023.112129.

Gonzalez, L., Ho, S-T, B.J. Rickard, G. Fazio, G. Reig, J. Lordan, S.A. Hoying, M.J. Fargione, M. Miranda Sazo, T.L. Robinson. 2023. Estimated Economic Impacts of Fire Blight on Long-Term Orchard Economic Performance with Susceptible and Disease Resistant Rootstocks. Scientia Hort.  (in press)

Ho, S.-T., L. Gonzalez, B.J. Rickard, G. Reig, J. Lordan, G. Fazio, S.A. Hoying, M. Fargione, M. Miranda Sazo and T.L. Robinson. 2023. Effects of Cultivar, Training System and Rootstock on Long-term Economic Performance of Apple Orchards in the Northeastern U.S.  Scientia Hort. (In press)

Iglesias, I., G. Reighard and G. Lang. 2023. Peach tree architecture: training systems and pruning. In: Manganaris, G., G. Costa and C. Crisosto (Eds.) Peach. CAB International, Wallingford, U.K., Chapter 2. pp. 17-53.

Lang, G.A., 2023. Innovation in tree fruit production system sustainability through horticultural engineering: case studies. Acta Hortic. 1366, 195-202 DOI:10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1366.22

Manganaris, G.A., Minas, I., Cirilli, M., Torres, R., Bassi, D. and Costa, G., 2022. Peach for the future: A specialty crop revisited. Scientia Horticulturae, 305, p.111390.

Miah, S. ^†, Hinson, C. ^#, Farcuh, M.*. 2023. Assessing fruit maturity and quality of ‘Buckeye Gala’ grown on a diverse panel of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) rootstocks in Western Maryland. Agronomy 13(10): 2528. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13102528

Minas, I.S., Anthony, B.M, Drogoudi, P., Costa, G., 2023. Chapter 9. Non-Destructive Peach Fruit Maturity and Quality Assessment. In: Manganaris, G.A., Costa, G., Crisosto, C.H., (Eds.), Peach. CAB International, Wallingford, United Kingdom, pp. 175-205.

Minas, I.S., Moreno, Μ.Α., Anthony, B.M, Pieper, J.R., Reighard, G.L., 2023. Chapter 3. Peach Rootstock Development and Performance. In: Manganaris, G.A., Costa, G., Crisosto, C.H., (Eds.), Peach. CAB International, Wallingford, United Kingdom, pp. 54-91.

Minas, I.S., Moreno, Μ.Α., Anthony, B.M, Pieper, J.R., Sterle, D.G., 2023. Large-scale and accurate non-destructive visual to near infrared spectroscopy-based assessment of the effect of rootstock on peach fruit internal quality. European Journal of Agronomy 143, 126706.

Minas, I.S., Reighard, G.L., Brent Black, B., Cline, J.A., Chavez, D.J., Coneva, E., Lang, G., Parker, M., Robinson, T., Schupp, J., Francescato, P., Jaume Lordan, J., Tom Beckman, T., Shane, W., Sterle, D., Pieper, J., Cathy Bakker, C., Clark, B., Ouellette, D., Swain, A., Winzeler, H.E., 2022. Establishment performance of the 2017 NC-140 semi-dwarf peach rootstock trial across 10 sites in North America. Acta Horticulturae 1346, 669-676.

Miranda Sazo, M., and T.L. Robinson. 2023.  Strategies to Control Vegetative Growth in Frost Damaged Trees. Lake Ontario Fruit Newsletter-Fruit Notes. Vol 23 Issue 7, June 8, 2023.

Muehlbauer, M, W. Cowgill, 2023. 2023-2024 E002 New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide

Newberger, D.R., Minas, I.S., Manter, D.K., Vivanco, J.M., 2023. A Microbiological Approach to Alleviate Soil Replant Syndrome in Peaches. Microorganisms 11, 1448.

Newberger, D.R., Minas, I.S., Manter, D.K., Vivanco, J.M., 2023. Shifts of the soil microbiome composition induced by plant–plant interactions under increasing cover crop densities and diversities. Scientific Reports 13, 17150.

Raman MG, Marzougui A, Teh SL, York ZB, Evans KM, Sankaran S. (2023) Rapid assessment of architectural traits in pear rootstock breeding program. Remote Sensing. 15(6), 1483.

Reighard, G. 2022. Peach rootstock performance on Peach Tree Short Life and Desarmillaria Replant Sites. Southeastern Professional Fruit Workers Conference, Nov. 14, 2022, Lake Alfred, FL. Conference Book of Abstracts, Abstract #7. p. 15.

Reighard, G.L., D. Ouellette and I. Minas.  2023. Field testing Prunus rootstocks in South Carolina for peach tree short life and Armillaria tolerance.  XXXI ISHS HortCongress, Angers, France. Acta Hortic. 1366:69-74. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1366.8

Robinson, T. L. Gonzalez, and M. Miranda Sazo. 2023. Cornell Chemical Defoliation Recommendation for the On-farm Apple Nurseries in WNY in 2023. Lake Ontario Fruit Newsletter-Fruit Notes. Vol 23 Issue 16, Oct 14, 2023.

Serrano, A., Wunsch, A., Sabety, J., van Zoeren, J., Basedow, M., Miranda Sazo, M., Fuchs, M. and Khan, A., 2023. The comparative root system architecture of declining and non-declining trees in two apple orchards in New York. Plants, 12(14), 2644.

Sterle, D.G., Caspari H.W., and Minas, I.S., 2023. Optimized differential thermal analysis sheds light on the effect of temperature on peach floral bud cold hardiness and transition from endo- to ecodormancy. Plant Science, 335, 111791.

Teh SL, York Z, Evans K. (2023) QTL mapping and haploblock characterization of two major dwarfing loci in reciprocal Pyrus rootstock seedling families. Fruit Research. DOI: 10.48130/FruRes-2023-0020.

Warmund, M. R., Ellersieck, M., and J. R. Schupp. 2023. Low-Temperature Survival of ‘Cresthaven’ Peach Flower Buds and Fruit Yield on Eight Rootstocks in the 2017 NC-140 Rootstock Trial. J. Amer. Pomological Soc. 77(1):51-61.

Wheeler, W.D., B. Black and B. Bugbee. 2023. Assessing water stress in a high-density apple orchard using trunk circumference variation, sap flow index and stem water potential. Frontiers in Plant Science. Volume 14:3 August. DOI 10.3389/fpls.2023.1214429.

Wolfe D. 2022. 2022 Results from 2019 ‘Buckeye Gala’ apple rootstock trial at Princeton, KY, p 7-8. In: Becker D (ed). NovDec 2022 Fruit facts newsletter. Univ Kent Agr Exp Stn Fruit Facts Newsl 2022-6.

Wolfe, D., D. Becker, G. Travis, and B. Arnoldussen.  2023. Rootstock affects apple tree growth and yield.  In: Rudolph R (ed). Fruit and vegetable 2019 annual report. Univ Kent Agr Exp Stn Bull PR (in press).

York, Z., Teh, S. L., Evans, K. (2023). Fire blight susceptibility of 20 diverse pear (Pyrus spp.) rootstock breeding parents. Journal of the American Pomological Society. 77(2): 66-74.

Presentations

Anthony, BM, Minas IS. “Cold hardiness research” Western Colorado Horticultural Society Annual Conference, Jan 2023, Grand Junction, CO.

Anthony, BM, Minas IS. “Primary & secondary metabolism cross talk during peach fruit quality development.” X International Peach Symposium, Jun 2022, Naousa, Greece.

Anthony, B.M., Minas, I.S., “Peach & cherry training systems”, Lecture within the frame of the workshop “Pruning & Training: Peaches & Cherries following freeze damage” Organized under the frame of Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) by CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), January 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Anthony, B.M., Minas, I.S., “Influence of Training Systems on Peach Vigor, Production and Fruit Quality”, Lecture within the frame of “2022 Pomology Field Day”, Organized by the CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), May 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Black B, and Drost D. 2023. A Comparison of Root Growth and Distribution Among Six Rootstocks in the 2009 NC-140 ‘Redhaven’ Peach Trial. ASHS Conference, Poster presentation. Orlando, FL. 1 August 2023.

Black, B. USU pomology research update. Utah State Horticulture Association Summer Commercial Orchard Field Day, Santaquin, UT. Commercial fruit growers, orchard managers and Extension faculty. 11 July 24 (25 in attendance).         

Black, B. NC-140 rootstock research on peach and high-density tart cherry. Kaysville Research Farm Open House for commercial growers. Kaysville, UT. Invitations were to commercial tree fruit growers only. 29 June 23 (11 in attendance).

Black, B. USU research on rootstock adaptability, and the importance of selecting appropriate rootstocks for Utah’s unique environment and soils. Kaysville Farm Public Field Day, in conjunction with the Utah Urban and Small Farms Conference. Kaysville, UT. Audience included small-acreage farmers, Utah Master Gardeners and county extension faculty. Featured tour stops included the 2017 peach and tart cherry rootstock plantings. 28 June 23 (28 in attendance).

Calle, A., K. Gasic, C. Saski, G. Schnabel, G. Reighard, J. Adelberg, T. Gradziel, T. Mark, and M. Vassalos. 2022. Progress on breeding for Armillaria root rot tolerant rootstocks.  Southeastern Professional Fruit Workers Conference, Nov. 14, 2022. 

Casagrande Biasuz, E., L. Gonzalez Nieto, T. Einhorn and T.L. Robinson. 2023. Long-term Performance of Bosc Pear Trees at Three Planting Densities on Pyrus Rootstocks. ISHS Symposium on Pear Jan 20, 2023. (150 people)

Casagrande Biasuz, E., L. Gonzalez Nieto, P. Francescatto, J. Lordan and T.L. Robinson. 2023. Training System Affects Long-term Sweet Cherry Yield and Quality in New York State. ISHS Symposium on Cherry May 15, 2023. (150 people)

Cowgill, W. Final Review of Apple Tree Branching with PGR’S in Nursery and Orchard

Cowgill, W. Grower Meeting Jan 2023. Randolph, NJ. Pruning Tall Spindle Apples on Tall Spindle System. 35 growers attending

Cowgill, W. Commercial Grower Meeting- Chemical Thinning and PGR crop load management recommends for 2023 growing season, Oldwick, NJ- 30 growers attending

Cowgill, W. Two Commercial Grower Meetings Cornell- May 9, 2023 Apple Plant Growth Regulator recommendation Meetings- 125 growers attending

Cowgill,W. 2023. Arrange Use in Apple To Reduce Floral Bud Formation. 2022. March 7, 2023. Northeast PGR Meeting, Wilkes-Barre, Pa

Cowgill, W., D. Donahue. 2022. “Breaking the Biennial Bearing Cycle in Apple with ArrangeTM” March 8, 2022. Northeast PGR Meeting, Wilkes-Barre, Pa

Evans KM (2023) Plant breeding from a pome fruit perspective. Texas A & M Plant Breeding Symposium Keynote. February 16, 2023

Herrin, G., M. Vassalos, T. Mark, G. Reighard, G. Schnabel, K. Gasic, and N. Smith. 2023. What is the Economic Value of Root Collar Excavation? An Analysis Using Simulation Techniques. Agricultural and Applied Economics Annual Meeting. July 23-25, 2023, Washington, D.C.

Herrin, G., M. Vassalos, F. Silva, A. Thayer, N. Smith, and G. Reighard. 2023. An Economic Estimation of the benefits of Root Collar Excavation (RCE) Method in the Peach Industry.  Southern Agricultural Economics Annual Meeting, February 4-8, 2023. Oklahoma City, OK.

Minas, I.S., Sterle D.G., “Freeze Events and Cold Damage Assessment”, Lecture within the frame of the workshop “Pruning & Training: Peaches & Cherries following freeze damage” Organized under the frame of Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) by CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), January 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Minas, I.S., “Fruit tree pruning & training responses”, Lecture within the frame of the workshop “Pruning & Training: Peaches & Cherries following freeze damage” Organized under the frame of Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) by CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), January 2022, Grand Junction, CO.Musacchi S., (2023). Optimization of fruit tree propagation techniques and agronomical performances in the nursery. I International Symposium on Plant Propagation, Nursery Organization and Management for the Production of Certified Fruit Trees held in Bari (Italy). July 3-5, 2023.

Miranda Sazo, M., T.L. Robinson and L. Cheng. 2023. Effects of Four Rootstocks on Dry Matter Accumulation and Partitioning of 'Honeycrisp' Trees. Abstracts of the ASHS Annual Meeting in Orlando Florida.  Aug. 3, 2023 (50 people)

Muehlbauer, M. 1, March 2023. New Jersey Hard Cider Apple Variety Trial Updates. North Jersey Commercial Fruit Grower Meeting. Flemington, NJ. Grower Audience. Attendance 60.

Muehlbauer, M. 3, May 2023. Rutgers Snyder Research Farm Trial Updates. North Jersey Tree Fruit Twilight Meeting I. Oldwick, NJ. Grower Audience. Attendance 40

Muehlbauer, M. 7, June 2023. Rutgers Snyder Research Farm Trial Updates. North Jersey Tree Fruit and Vegetable Twilight Meeting. Princeton, NJ. Grower Audience. Attendance 20.

Musacchi S., and Serra S. (2023). Update on Apple Pollinizers and Quince Rootstocks.Northwest Nursery Improvement Institute (NNII) Annual meeting. Prosser, WA, United States of America. May 16, 2023

Musacchi S. (2023). Apple Rootstocks Trials Now and Future. Northwest Nursery Improvement Institute (NNII). Prosser, WA, United States of America. October 11, 2023.  

Newberger, D., Vivanco, J., Minas, I.S., Using soil disruption followed by cover crops and rootstocks to alleviate peach replant disease. 10th International Peach Symposium, International Society for Horticultural Sciences (ISHS), May 2022, Naoussa, Greece.

Peck, G.M. 8 Aug 2023. Hard Cider PWT Tour: Hudson Valley. Tour stops included, Pennings Farm Cidery (Warwick, NY), Doc’s Cidery (Warwick, NY), and Orchard Hill Cider Mill & Soons Orchard (North Hampton, NY). Grower audience. Attendance 68.

Peck, G.M. 17 Aug 2023. Fruit PWT Tour. Tour stop included the NC140 planting at Angry Orchard in Walden, NY. Faculty and extension educator audience. Attendance: 20.

Peck, G.M. 12 Sept 2023. Cider Institute of North America. Cider & Perry Production - A Foundation: Virtual Cider Apple Orchard Tours (Featured the Lansing 2023 Cider NC140 Trial). Cider producer audience. Attendance 35.

Pieper J, Minas IS. “The impact of size controlling rootstocks on peach fruit metabolome and internal quality”, X International Peach Symposium, Jun 2022, Naousa, Greece.

Pieper, J.R., Minas, I.S., “2017 NC-140 Semi-Dwarf Peach Rootstock Trial: 5 year recap”. Lecture within the frame of “2022 Pomology Field Day”, Organized by the CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), May 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Pieper, J.R., Sterle, D.G., Minas, I.S., “Influence of Rootstock & Cultivar Selection”, Lecture within the frame of the workshop “Pruning & Training: Peaches & Cherries following freeze damage” Organized under the frame of Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) by CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), January 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Reighard, G.L. 2023. NC-140 National Peach Rootstock Screening Trials.  North American Plant Breeders Meeting.  July 18, 2023.  Musser Farm, Seneca, SC.

Reighard, G.L. 2023.  Interfacing genomic research with field research to overcome obstacles to profitable peach production.  IRTA Research Center. June 23, 2023. Lleida, Spain.

Reighard, G.L. and T. Mark. 2023. Solutions to Armillaria root rot replant disease & its economic impact on stone fruit. Mid-Atlantic Fruit & Vegetable Conference.  February 2, 2023. Hershey, PA.

Reighard, G.  and K. Gasic.  2023.  Breeding ARR-resistant rootstocks: Updates of the USDA-NIFA multi-state SCRI Armillaria grant project.  Southeast Regional Fruit & Vegetable Conference. January 7, 2023. Savannah, GA.

Reighard, G. and D. Ouellette. 2022. Evaluation of semi-dwarfing peach rootstocks for intensive orchard systems in South Carolina. 98^th Cumberland-Shenandoah Fruit Workers Conference, Winchester, VA. Dec. 1, 2022.

Reighard, G. 2022. Peach rootstock performance on Peach Tree Short Life and Desarmillaria Replant Sites. Southeastern Professional Fruit Workers Conference, Nov. 14, 2022.

Robinson, T.L. 2023. The Honeycrisp storage passport. Virtual Statewide Fruit Conference. March 3, 2023.  (200 people)

Robinson, T.L. 2023. Honeycrisp Management. WNY Fruit Field Day. July 28, 2023. (300 people)

Robinson, T.L. 2023. Are 2-D Orchard Canopy Management Systems a Leap Forward or a Side-Step? Worldwide Webinar Horticulture Forum Feb. 7, 2023, (300 people)

Schupp, J. 2022. Innovations in high density training systems for peach. Great Lakes Expo. , Grand Rapids, MI Dec 7, 2022.

Schupp, J. 2022. Why it’s time for a new peach production system. New England Vegetable and Fruit Conf. December 13, 2022.

Schupp, J., and M. Schupp. 2023. Update on peach rootstocks. Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Conf. Hershey, PA. 2 Feb 2023.

Schupp, J., M. Schupp and G. Fazio. 2023. Growth and productivity of Gala apple trees on dwarf and semi-dwarf rootstocks- A 5-year summary. Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Conf. Hershey, PA (poster)  31 Jan 2023- 2 Feb 2023.

Sterle DG, Minas, I.S. “Exploration of environmental variables affecting peach hardiness”, X International Peach Symposium, Jun 2022, Naousa, Greece.

Sterle, D.G., Minas, I.S., “Cold damage pruning strategies” Lecture within the frame of the workshop “Pruning & Training: Peaches & Cherries following freeze damage” Organized under the frame of Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) by CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), January 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Sterle, D.G., Minas, I.S., “Cold hardiness Research Update”, Lecture within the frame of “2022 Pomology Field Day”, Organized by the CSU Pomology at Western Colorado Research Center at Orchard Mesa (WCRC-OM), May 2022, Grand Junction, CO.

Strang J. 2023. Dwarf apple rootstocks for Kentucky. KY Fruit & Veg Conf., Bowling Green, KY, Jan 3-4.

Teh SL (2023) WSU pear rootstock breeding program. U.S. Pear Crop Germplasm committee meeting (virtual). March 24, 2023.

Teh SL, York Z, Evans KM (2023) QTL mapping and haplotype characterization of two major-effect dwarfing loci in reciprocal Pyrus rootstock seedling families. 11th Rosaceae Genomics Conference, Nelson, New Zealand. March 15, 2023

Teh SL, Evans KM (2023) Pear rootstock breeding in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. 14th ISHS Pear Symposium, Stellenbosch, South Africa. January 26, 2023

Yao, S. 24 February 2023. Pruning Workshop.  Alcalde, NM. Grower/public audience. Attendance 28.

Yao, S. 10 August 2023. Rootstocks and tree performance. Annual Alcalde Field-day. Alcalde, NM. Grower/public audience. Attendance 96.

Grants

Black, Stock, Pace and Beddes, 2022-2025 Understanding and Alleviating Heat Stress in Tart Cherry: Adapting Utah Fruit Production to Climate Change. Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, Specialty Crop Block Grant. $66,474

Black, Einhorn, Torres-Rua, Basso, Murray, Rothwell, Yost and Cardon. 2021-2025 Improving the economic and environmental sustainability of tart cherry production through precision management. USDA, Specialty Crop Research Initiative $1,969,318

Bradshaw, T. Evaluating systems components for orchard and vineyard crops in Vermont. Vermont Agriculture Experiment Station Hatch Grants Program, Oct 2020 -Sep 2025. $63,942.

Cowgill, W. 2023. Integrating Cornell Carbohydrate Model with Fruitlet Growth Rate Mode Predicting Fruit Set to Make the Correct Selection of Plant Growth Regulators to Obtain Best Crop Load, New Jersey Horticultural Society $1400

Cowgill, W. 2023. Apple Variety Evaluation- Apple Cultivar Evaluation: Evaluate 38 new selections plus 16 named cultivars from MAIA (Midwest Apple Improvement Association) and Cornell University and the University of Minnesota New Jersey Horticultural Society $1,400

Evans, K. and S.L. Teh. Pear rootstock breeding. Fresh and Processed Pear Committee Research. $303,018.

Farcuh, M. 2022-2024. USDA, Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Evaluating apple rootstock performance in high-density plantings under Maryland conditions.

Fazio, G. Evaluation of Geneva Rootstocks – IFTA ($10,000)

Gasic, K., C. Saski, G. Reighard, G. Schnabel, J. C. Melgar, et al. “Solutions to the Armillaria root rot threat affecting the U.S. stone fruit industry”. USDA-SCRI Standard Research and Extension Grant 2020-02650. September 1, 2020 to August 31, 2024.  $4,972,730.

Lavely, E., G. Lang, Project GREEEN – West Central Planar Tree Fruit Demonstration Orchards, $48,185.

Londo, J. Apple Rootstocks Cold Hardiness – Federal Formula Funds ($30,000)

Minas, I.S. (PI), Grant, " Web-based peach cold hardiness prediction tool for grower frost control informed decision-making", Colorado Department of Agriculture, State of Colorado, $122,822 ($96,854) (start: 1/1/2023, end: 11/15/2024).

Minas, I. (PI), Grant, ‘Sustainable peach orchard soil microbiome management to control replant disease’ USDA/NIFA/Western SARE (2020): $350,000 (PI). awarded: Mar, 2020, start: Sep 1, 2020, end: Aug 31, 2023).

Minas, I. (PI), Grant, ‘Peach cold hardiness monitoring and management for improved grower frost control’ Specialty Block Grants, Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) (2020): $61,236 (PI). awarded: May, 2020, start: Jan 1, 2021, end: November 1, 2022).

Minas, I. (PI), Grant, ‘New training systems and rootstocks to maximize Colorado cherry orchards productivity and fruit quality potential’ Specialty Block Grants, Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) (2020): $53,539 (PI). awarded: May, 2020, start: Jan 1, 2021, end: November 1, 2022).

Muehlbauer, M. 2023. Establishment and Maintenance of a New 2023 NC-140 Rootstock Trial of the Cultivar Porters Perfection. New Jersey Horticultural Society. $2,500

Parker, M.L. NC Legislature/Special Bill funding for apple research - $6,000.

Peck, G.M. 2022-2025. Improving Economic and Environmental Sustainability in Tree-fruit Production Through Changes in Rootstock Use. USDA-NIFA-Multistate Funding. $89,015.

Reighard, G.  2023.  Guardian® rootstock seed sales revenue.  South Carolina Foundation Seed.  $210,000.

Robinson, T.L. Orchard management systems and rootstocks for improved yield and fruit quality – NY Apple Research and Development Program ($50,000).

Torres-Rua, Safre, Barker and Black. 2023-2025. Remote sensing of evapotranspiration to conserve irrigation water in tart cherry. USU Extension Water Initiative Grants $74,012.

Wiepz. Wisconsin Cherry Board funding for maintenance of the 2017 NC140 Tart Cherry High Density Rootstock and Irrigation Trials. $2,000.

Xu, H. April 2021- March 2024. Clean technologies for improved apple rootstock microbiome. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. $39,000 CAD.