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RCTB-funded Research Projects for 2024-25
The RCTB Board approved eight research projects for 2024-25, investing more than $200,000 in research. Over the past few weeks, we have been showcasing the various research. Below is a summary of one of the approved projects.
Evaluation of select fungicides for control of Needle Blight (Passalora sequoia) on Leyland Cypress Christmas Trees – Auburn University – Dr. Jeremy Pickens
Passalora sequoia is a major disease of Leyland cypress and other species used for southern Christmas trees. Due to the humidity and high frequency of rainfall, this blight can render a crop of trees unmarketable by just missing a few fungicide applications. Bi-weekly fungicide sprays are recommended; however, most growers can only apply monthly due to resource allocation. As many growers only have access to handgun-type sprayers, the labor to apply these expensive chemicals is a major input. Considering the expense of applications and the costs of the fungicides, it is surprising that it has been more than 20 years since an efficacy trial has been conducted. The last efficacy study that we were able to find in the literature was conducted at the University of Georgia by Dr. Williams-Woodard in 2002. This research provided an excellent resource for growers. Still, in the 22 years since this work has been done, resistance has likely developed due to lack of rotation and natural mutations of the pathogen. Additionally, additional newer chemistries have become available that might have activity on this blight.
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