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Peach
growers are facing a new challenge to production, called Peach Replant
Disorder. New trees tend to grow slower and yield less fruit when they
are planted on a site that had been planted with peaches earlier.
For the answer to this problem, plant pathologist Christina Wells and
her graduate students are focusing on the web of tiny roots that trees
depend on for nourishment.
“When are the fine roots of trees produced, how long do they live, and
why do they die?” Wells asked. “We are using root observation tubes and
miniaturized cameras to monitor changes in fine root population dynamics
in response to irrigation, disease and soil variables.”
Her work with colleagues Desmond Layne and Greg Reighard will aid
growers to produce healthy orchards and higher fruit yields. The
research also may help foresters and landscape horticulturists improve
tree growth and longevity.
For information: Christina Wells, cewells@clemson.edu,
864-656-6940
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