Author
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Grauke, Larry |
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Thompson, Tommy |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 2/28/2002 Publication Date: 8/11/2002 Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: The driving force behind the development of rootstocks for nut crops has been the solution of specific problems, often related to the presence of pests or the need for adaption to particular sites. The use of interspecific hybrids as rootstocks has led to increased appreciation for the contribution genetic diversity can make to orchard profitability in the face of site specific challenges. The past decade has seen dramatic increases in access to germplasm resources, while technological developments in molecular genetics have contributed to genetic characterization and utilization in some crops. The focus on clonal propagation through tissue culture has been somewhat abated by the slow pace of nursery incorporation of available techniques, by challenges with anchorage of some clonal rootstocks, and by the recognition of the vulnerability inherent to a monoculture susceptible to an unsuspected root pest. Increased application of spatial analysis systems (GIS) may contribute to prescription use of site-specific rootstocks, although public database development and access may be limited by proprietary or confidential information. As global boundaries become less of a barrier to the movement of information and germplasm, and as the linkage between generations of family farmers is broken, the ability to accurately prescribe appropriate rootstock-scion combinations with precision may become a proprietary commodity on the market. The role of public sector research and development is rapidly changing. |
