Source: RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY submitted to NRP
IMPROVING ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN TREE-FRUIT PRODUCTION THROUGH CHANGES IN ROOTSTOCK USE
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
HATCH
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0089238
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
NC-_OLD140
Project Start Date
Oct 1, 2007
Project End Date
Sep 30, 2017
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY
3 RUTGERS PLZA
NEW BRUNSWICK,NJ 08901-8559
Performing Department
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Non Technical Summary
Situation-With the competitive international market, the demand for high quality fruit by consumers, the strong pressure to reduce chemical use, and a need to enhance the economic efficiency of production, tree-fruit growers must look to alternative, economically and environmentally sustainable management schemes of production. Growers who want to stay profitable must establish high-density plantings with much smaller trees using new cultivars. Potential returns of high-density plantings, however, far exceed those of low-density plantings, particularly during the first 10 years after planting. The central component of high-density systems is the rootstock, the part of the tree which provides size control to allow for high-density plantings. As part of the tree, the rootstock influences many factors in addition to tree size, particularly productivity, fruit quality, pest resistance, stress tolerance, and ultimately profitability. As the industry moves from low- to high-density plantings, several rootstock-related problems must be addressed. New pome- and stone-fruit rootstocks cannot be recommended unless there is sustained research investigating soil and climatic adaptability, root anchorage, size control, precocity, productivity, pest resistance, and propagation. In general, field testing of rootstocks in an orchard setting requires a minimum of eight years to accurately assess the potential for improved profitability, reduction of external farm inputs, and enhancement of production efficiency. With year-to-year variation in weather, this time span is necessary to obtain a true indication of rootstock performance across multiple environments. The expected outcome of this project is a more profitable and competitive tree fruit industry in North America. To remain competitive in the world fruit market, fruit growers need to replant old orchards, but the high level of investment required and the long-term nature of the investment to plant new orchards require that growers make sound research-based decisions of which rootstock and cultivar to plant. If the wrong rootstock is used, it can result in low production and reduced profitability or in the worst case, death of the trees and significant economic losses. If superior rootstocks are used, yields, fruit quality and hence profitability can be improved. The impact of this project will be measured by the changes the fruit industry makes in adopting new improved rootstocks and by the prevention of serious rootstock failures and associated economic losses. The information developed through this project is vital to the economic success of the North American fruit industry. This project has already become the primary source of information on rootstocks for New Jersey fruit growers. New acreage of high density apples continues to be planted with dwarfing rootstocks recommended from the NC140 research and demonstrations. Demand for Pick Your Own apples, peaches and cherries has driven the new and expanded acreage establishment in NJ as has the tremendous increase in the number of tailgate farmers markets in NJ and NYC allowing our growers increased retail marketing opportunities.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
2051110106070%
2041110106020%
2031110106010%
Knowledge Area
204 - Plant Product Quality and Utility (Preharvest); 205 - Plant Management Systems; 203 - Plant Biological Efficiency and Abiotic Stresses Affecting Plants;

Subject Of Investigation
1110 - Apple;

Field Of Science
1060 - Biology (whole systems);
Goals / Objectives
Objectives - 1.To evaluate the influence of rootstocks on temperate-zone fruit trees characteristics grown under different management systems and environmental conditions. In order to evaluate performance of rootstock material in different climatic and edaphic environments, current replicated and randomized uniform trials will be maintained, and new trials will be established across North America as part of the NC-140 project. Promising new and existing rootstocks and multiple genetic systems possessing desirable characteristics have been or will be selected. 2.To better understand the response to and impacts of biotic and abiotic stresses on scion/rootstock combinations in temperate-zone fruit trees. Outputs. The primary outputs of this project have been and will continue to be unbiased information on the field performance, biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, and propagation of fruit tree rootstocks in different climates and soils across North America. Publications from individual researchers or groups or researcher under the objectives of this project are also an important measure of success, and since the last rewrite of this project, there have been more than 140 publications by individual researchers.
Project Methods
Objective 1- Rootstock trials will be evaluated with respect to precocity, productivity, size control, anchorage, suckering, pest resistance, adaptability, and production efficiency. These trials will be maintained and data will be collected according to specific uniform guidelines established by the technical committee. For each trial, data to be collected will include root suckering, tree growth as measured by changes in trunk cross-sectional area, tree height, canopy spread, precocity, yield, fruit size, temperature, and rainfall/irrigation. Trials will be concluded after 10 growing seasons. Data will be transmitted annually to the trial coordinator. In NJ we have the 2002 and 2010 apple trials established at Rutgers Sndyer Farm. Standard statistical analyses will be performed on all data. Objective 2- Studies will be conducted to elucidate stress tolerance of fruit trees as influenced by rootstocks. A uniform, coordinated trial was established in 2006 in NJ with a potential for apple replant disease. The plots consisted of 2 fumigation treatments and an UTC, thus allowing an assessment of the relative effects of apple replant disease on various rootstocks. Severity of apple replant disease was characterized at each site prior to planting. Trial data will be annually transmitted to the trial coordinator (NY). Outcomes or Projected Impacts. The expected outcome of this project is a more profitable and competitive tree fruit industry in North America. The impact of this project will be measured by the changes the fruit industry makes in adopting new improved rootstocks and by the prevention of serious rootstock failures and associated economic losses. Milestones. The primary milestones of progress by this project over the next 5 years will be the publication of 5-year interim and 10-year final reports on the existing multi-state uniform plantings and the continued planning and planting of new uniform trials. OUTREACH PLAN: The NC-140 project is committed to disseminating research based results and information to the major clientele groups it serves, fruit growers and nurserymen. Electronic outreach will occur primarily through our web site, http://www.NC140.org. Research results will be summarized for publication in professional journals. Most refereed journal publications will be placed in the Journal of the American Pomological Society http://www.pubhort.org/aps/66/66.htm In NJ we will also publish grower articles of results and recommendations in our Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory Newsletter; http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/plantandpestadvisory/, fact sheets, our Rutgers Tree Fruit Production Guide E002; http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/publication.asppid=e002 and NJ Horticultural News; http://www.horticulturalnews.org/ Additional outreach will occur through numerous educational programs, twilight meetings at the Rutgers Snyder Farm, North Jersey Fruit meeting, Tri-State Horticulture meeting and at the Annual Meeting of the International Fruit Tree Association; http://www.ifruittree.org/

Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/17

Outputs
Target Audience: Nothing Reported Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Dr. Cowgill suddenly retired in June of 2016. Unfortunately REEport would not allow a project change to process to close this project back in 2016 due to a technical issue. There is nothing to report for this FY.

Publications


    Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15

    Outputs
    Target Audience:Commercial Tree Fruit Growers in NJ, the US, the Northeast US, and Canada. Home fruit growers in north/central NJ. And the tree fruit nursery industry in PA, DE and and NY. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2015; Flemington, NJ, 105 growers North Jersey Pruing Meeting, February 2015 ; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ-46 growers North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, May 7, 2015; Rutgers Snyder Farm-68 growers North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2015- 58 growers How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our out-reach component. The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2015 there 3,652 session with 2,799 users, 8,364 page views, Countries accessing in order: USA, Mexico, Canada, China, Chilie, Germany, Iran, India, Turkey, Ukraine, Australia. 125 grower on-farm visits in NJ and PA were made in 2015. 124 phone calls to growers disscussing NC140 rootstock research. 2015 Rutgers Tree Fruit Production Guide E002 apple section updated with best NC140 apple rootstock information todate. Rutgers Fruit Focus Newsletter -updates on apple roostocks, and branching of apples in nursery and orchard (235 recipants) 2015 North Jersey Fruit Meeting, Flemimngton, NJ 105 growers updated What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue taking data as per protocols as plantings mature.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1 Three apple rootstock plantings are planted at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown, NJ as part of Objective 1. They include the 2010 Apple Rootstock planting with Honeycrisp, and two 2014 Apple Rootstock plantings, one with Honeycrisp and the other with Fuji. Plantings include dwarf and semi-dwarf Geneva® and Vineland rootstocks as well as several rootstocks procured from other word-wide sources, compared to the commercial standard rootstocks (M.9-T337 and M.26-EMLA). In 2015 new apple rootstock trial was established in a private grower farm (Jersey Farm Produce, Franklin Township, NJ), designated as the 2015 Organic Apple trial, cultivar Modi. All data was collected in 2015. Results from 2010, 2014 and 2015 plantings are detailed in in the 2015 NC_140_NewJerseyState_2015.docx report online at, http://www.NC140.org under the NC-140 Members Link, 2015 State Reports. Objective 5 Enhance the sustainability of temperate fruit farming through development and distribution of research-based information The NC-140 web site, http://nc140.org continues to be our primary outreach component serving as an important collaboration tool for cooperators. Members of the research group communicate through a list serve, and upload/download project files to password-protected directories (NJ, MA). We have used the site to allow for easier collaboration and comparison of replicated rootstock trials. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the NIMMS and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. For results and statistics see the section below on: How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest.

    Publications

    • Type: Books Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ward, D., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2015. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension E002. 229 pp.
    • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Cooley, Daniel, J. Clements, W. Cowgill, 2015. An Annual Fire Blight Management Program for Apples: An Update. Horticultural News 95-2, pgs 18-26
    • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Cowgill, W., R. Magron, J.M. Clements, and W.R. Autio. 2015. Two new NC-140 apple trials: Vineland and Geneva rootstocks with Honeycrisp and Fuji at Rutgers Snyder Farm. Fruit Notes 80(3):6-8.
    • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Cowgill, W., R. Magron, J.M. Clements, and W.R. Autio. 2015. Two new NC-140 apple trials: Vineland and Geneva rootstocks with Honeycrisp and Fuji at Rutgers Snyder Farm. Horticultural News 95(3):6-8.


    Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14

    Outputs
    Target Audience: Commercial Tree Fruit Growers in NJ, the US, the Northeast US, and Canada. Home fruit growers in north/central NJ. And the tree fruit nursery industry in PA, DE and and NY. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? •North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2014; Broadway, NJ, 67 growers •North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 08; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ-46 growers • North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, June 10; Donaldsons Farm, Hackettstown, NJ -68 growers •South Jersey Twilight- DeEugio's Glassboro, NJ -42 growers •North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2014- 48 growers How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our out-reach component. The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results.In 2014 there 3,868 unique visitors with 5,719 page views. Countries accessing in order:USA, Mexico, Canada, China, Chilie, Germany, Iran, India, Turkey, Ukraine, Australia New Jersey home owners were reached through an ongoing short course program, the 2014 Home Orchard Series, hosted at Rutgers snyder Farm. A series of lectures and hands on workshops, 55 total participated. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue taking data on the three established trials, 2010 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial at Rutgers Snyder Farm, and the two 2014 Vineland Apple Rootstock Trials at Rutgers Snyder Frarm.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1 Three apple rootstock plantings are planted at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown, NJ as part of Objective 1. They include the 2010 Apple Rootstock planting with Honeycrisp, and two 2014 Apple Rootstock plantings, one with Honeycrisp and the other with Fuji. Plantings include dwarf and semi-dwarf Geneva® and Vineland rootstocks as well as several rootstocks procured from other word-wide sources, compared to the commercial standard rootstocks (M.9-T337 and M.26-EMLA). Results from 2014 for the plantings are detailed in Appendix 1 (2010 Apple Rootstock), and Appendixes 2 and 3 (2014 Honeycrisp and Fuji respectively). Objective 5 To enhance the sustainability of temperate fruit farming through development and distribution of research-based information The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our primary outreach component serving as an important collaboration tool for cooperators. Members of the research group communicate through a list serve, and upload/download project files to password-protected directories (NJ, MA). We have used the site to allow for easier collaboration and comparison of replicated rootstock trials. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the NIMMS and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. In 2014 there 3,868 unique visitors with 5,719 page views. Countries accessing in order: USA, Mexico, Canada, China, Chilie, Germany, Iran, India, Turkey, Ukraine, Australia NC-140 also maintains its own Email distribution list for internal communication. The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net

    Publications

    • Type: Books Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: D. Ward, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2014. "New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide." Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (232) http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/publication.asp?pid=e002
    • Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: http://www.nc140.org/


    Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/13

    Outputs
    Target Audience: Our target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers, 400 state wide. Secondary are home-owners intersted in home tree fruit production in New Jersey. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Extension Meetings/Tours for commerical grower training •North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 5, 2013; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittsotwn, NJ 66 attendees, growers •North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 09; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ 44 attendees, growers • North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, May 3; Stoney Hill Orchards, Chester, NJ 44 attendees, growers •North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2013; sponsored by Rutgers Cooperative Extension and NJ NOFA – 48 growers participating NC-140 Website is hosted by Win Cowgill, Rutgers and Jon Clements, UMASS. The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be a primary out-reach component. The NC-140 web site also serves as an important collaboration tool for cooperators who can communicate via an e-mail list, and upload/download Project files to password-protected directories. The Internet registration for http://www.NC14.org/ continues to be maintained. The web site is hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the NIMMS and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. E-Mail Distribution List The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net 2013 NC-140 Web Report- -The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2012 we began using Google Analytics to track our web traffic. We had 2,064 visits with 5,551 page views Countries accessing in order: USA, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Iran, India, Turkey, Ukraine, Australia The most Popular Web Pages are: • Plantings • Publications •Annual Meeting •Plantings/2010applerootstock.html •Weblinks •Annual reports •Cooperators How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our out-reach component. The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2013 there were 2,064 unique visits with 5,551 page views of our project and research results world wide. New Jersey home owners were reached through an ongoing short course program, the 2013 Home Orchard Series, hosted at Rutgers Snyder Farm. A series of lectures and hands on workshops held in the spring. In addition two community orchards were established in 2013. The first was a new community apple orchard at the Shiloh Community Garden in New Brunswick, NJ. A group of volunteers from Elijah’s Promise, New Brunswick Community Food Alliance and local residents as well as staff and faculty from various departments at Rutgers, planted an orchard of 40 apple trees in one day and installed 90 feet of trellis to support the trees. The garden will be used to teach home orcharding to home owners in New Brunswick. The second demonstration orchard was established at the Presby Mememoral Iris Gardens in Essex County. Cowgill ran a training on Home Orcharding and then guided a team of Essex Master Gardeners in establshing the demonstation orchard at Presby. The orchard will be used to teach future master gardeners and citizens of Essex County how to grow their own fruit. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue taking data on the two established trials, 2006 NC140 apple rootstock replant trial, and 2010 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial at Rutgers Sndyer Farm. The 2014 Vineland Apple Rootstock Trial will be established at Rutgers Sndyer Farm, both the Fuji and HC trials will be put in.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1-Currently two NC140 apple rootstock planting trials are maintained in New Jersey. Both are located at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm. The first is the 2006 NC140 Fumigation Trial- NJ/UMASS cooperating, all datawas taken in 2013. The second planting trial was the 2010 NC140 Honeycrisp Apple Trial- All data taken was taken in 2013. 2013 was the off biennial year so yields were reduced. In the 2010 trial the smallest rootstocks by TCSA (CM2) were B.71-7-22 @1.6, CG.2034 @25.7, G.41TC @7.1, G.11 @7.2 and G.41N @7.3. The largest trees by TCSA (CM2) were B.70-20-20 @ 26.3, PiAu9-90 @16.4, B.7-20-21 @15.3. Of Note; there was a large difference between G.202Nursery with TCSA @ 15.1 vs G.202Tissue Culture @8.6 as contrasted to G.41 which had very similar TCSA. G.41TC @ 7.1 vsG.41N @7.3 The highest yield in 2013 for the 2010 trial was on M.9T337 @11Kg, followed by, M9Pajam2 @10.3Kg, and G.11 @9.8. Lowest yield in 2013 was on B.71-7-22@ 0.8Kg followed by CG.5087 @4.2Kg, and B.70-20-20 @4.4Kg. M.9T337 and G.11 shared the highest yield efficiency at 1.4 (kg/cm2 TCSA) followed by B.9, B.10, CG.2034, CG.4003 who were at 1.3 (kg/cm2 TCSA). Usefulness of Findings- •98% of all New Jersey Orchards utilize apple, pear and cherry dwarfing rootstocks as a direct result of NC140. •In the past 3 years there have been 300 acres of new high density apple orchards established in NJ with dwarfing rootstocks evaluated and recommended by NC-140. Currently in NJ there are: Crop Acres Value Apples 2400 A 35 Million Pears 250 A 0.5 Million Cherries 100 A 0.2 Million 2,750 Acres 35.7 Million

    Publications

    • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: D. Ward, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2013. "New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide." Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (232)
    • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Autio, W., T. Robinson, D. Archbold, W. Cowgill, C. Hampson, R. Quezada, and D. Wolfe. 2013. Gala apple trees on Supporter 4, P.14, and different strains of B.9, M.9, and M.26 Rootstocks: Final 10 year report on the 2002 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial. J. Amer. Pomol. Soc. 67:62-71
    • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Marini, R., W. Autio, B. Black, J. Cline, W. Cowgill, R. Crassweller, P. Domoto, C. Hampson, R. Moran, R. Quezada, T. Robinson, D. Ward, and D. Wolfe. 2013. Return bloom on Golden Delicious apple trees as affected by previous seasons crop density on three rootstocks at 11 locations. J. Amer. Pomol. Soc. 67:73-79
    • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Autio, W., Robinson, T.L., Cowgill, W., Hampson, C., Kushad, M., Lang, G., Masabni, J., Miller, D.D., Parra-Quezada, R.A., Perry, R. and Rom, C. 2011. PERFORMANCE OF 'GALA' APPLE TREES ON SUPPORTER 4 AND DIFFERENT STRAINS OF B.9, M.9, AND M.26 ROOTSTOCKS AS PART OF THE 2002 NC140 APPLE ROOTSTOCK TRIAL. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 903:311-318 http://www.actahort.org/books/903/903_40.htm
    • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Cline, J., Cowgill, W., Godin, R., Johnson, R.S., Kamas, J., Kaps, M., Larsen, H., Lindstrom, T., Ouellette, D., Pokharel, R., Stein, L., Taylor, K., Walsh, C.S., Ward, D. and Whiting, M.D. 2011. PERFORMANCE OF PRUNUS ROOTSTOCKS IN THE 2001 NC-140 PEACH TRIAL. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 903:463-468 http://www.actahort.org/books/903/903_63.htm
    • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Johnson, S., R. Andersen, W. Autio, T. Beckman, B. Black, P. Byers, J. Cline, C. Chavez-Gonzalez, W. Cowgill, R. Godin, G. Greene, M. Kaps, J. Kamas, H. Larsen, T. Lindstrom, D. Miller, M. Newell, D. Ophardt, D. Ouellette, R. Parra-Quezada, R. Pokharel, G. Reighard, T. Robinson, J. Schupp, L. Stein, K. Taylor, C. Walsh, D. Ward, M. Warmund and M. Whiting, 2011. Performance of the 2002 NC-140 Cooperative Peach Rootstock Planting. Journal of the American Pomological Society Vol 65 (1) Article 3 http://www.pubhort.org/aps/65/v65_n1_a3.htm


    Progress 10/01/11 to 09/30/12

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: New Jersey NC-140 rootstock trials are located at the NJ Agricultural Experiment Station Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm. The Snyder Farm is located in Franklin Township, Hunterdon County located in Northwestern, New Jersey. Apple Trials-Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm All data was collected in 2012. This was another of the most challenging seasons weather wise in 33 years. Bloom was three weeks early followed by 4 separate freeze and frost events. Harvest began 2 weeks early. Temperatures were unseasonably warm with over 15 days above 90F during the summer months. Fruit maturity and quality at harvest were variable as a result. We were also challenged for pest control midseason with the new invasive Brown Marmonated Stink Bug. Maintenance pesticide applications were timed utilizing NJ's pest management guidelines for Brown Marmonated Stinkbug following weekly scouting. Three applications of Surround was applied for sunburn protection. Weekly applications of CaCl in July and August for calcium disorders combined with Captan for Bitter Rot control. Season long irrigation was supplied via 1-2 applications per week as needed via drip tube. Results were disseminated at Extension Meetings and Field Days-North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2012; Broadway, NJ, 62 attendees, growers North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 11; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ 44 attendees, growers North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, May 3; Phillips Farm, Milford, NJ 66 attendees, growers North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2012; 48 growers participating NJAES and UMASS host the Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2012 we use Google Analytics to track our web traffic. In 2012- 2,064 visits with 5,551 page views were recorded. Countries accessing in order: USA, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Iran, India, Turkey, Ukraine, Australia- The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: Participants: Winfred P Cowgill, Jr. is the principal investigator and project director. Cowgill is a Professor and Area Fruit Agent with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County. Cowgill develops, implements and evaluates educational programs and conducts applied research for commercial fruit growers in Northern and Central NJ. He has statewide responsibility for apples. Cowgill conducts risk management programs for all northern NJ producers. Cowgill manages all aspects of the the NC140 project for NJ, insures adequate funding and personnel and oversees day to day project management. Prepares all reports and ensures data integrity. Rebecca Magron is a research associate with NJAES and Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Provides support for plot treatments and oversees all data collection and preparation. NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Post Office Box 116 Clayton, New Jersey 08312. 908-788-1339- njhortsociety@gmail.com The NJSHS has the oldest Horticultural Organization in NJ. The have provided long term financial support of NC140 projects in NJ. TARGET AUDIENCES: TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers. Research results are presented at Twilight meetings and winter educational meetings. Research plots are toured at the Rutgers Snyder Farm in April http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ With the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org the target is US commercial fruit growers in 50 states. Growers in over 76 countries utilize our data and recommendations via the website. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    Two apple trials are under test, the 2006 NC140 Fumigation Trial- NJ/UMASS All data continues to be taken along with NC and PA. 2012 was a good crop year, data taken but analyses not completed yet. The second is the 2010 NC140 Honeycrisp trial. This was the first cropping year. The following Data was collected; Trunk Cross Sectional Area, Yield per Tree, Yield Efficiency, and Average Fruit Size, in 2012. The largest trees was B.70-20-20 as measured by TSCA. The highest yielding rootstock was M.9T337 followed by M.9Pajam2.The lowest yield was B.71-7-22. The largest fruit size was on M.26EMLA with the smallest as B.71-7-22.

    Publications

    • R. Marini, W. Autio, B. Black, J. Cline, W. Cowgill, Jr., R. Crassweller, P. Domoto, C. Hampson, R. Moran, R. Parra-Quezada, T. Robinson, M. Stasiak, D. Ward and D. Wolfe, 2012. The Relationship Between Golden Delicious Fruit Weight and Crop Density at 12 Locations as Influenced by Three Dwarfing Rootstocks. Journal of the American Pomological Society, Vol 66.4
    • D. Ward, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2012. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (229)
    • Extension Newsletters 2012 New Jersey Plant and Pest Fruit Newsletter, 309 articles written http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/plantandpestadvisory/


    Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: Activities -All protocols were followed in 2011. All data was collected in 2011. Maintenance pesticide applications were timed utilizing NJ's pest management protocols. All data was compiled and analyzed. Events/Outreach Results were disseminated in NJ via Extension Meetings and Field Days in Northern New Jersey Extension Meetings and Field Days: 1)North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2011; Broadway, NJ, 64 attendees, growers 2)North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2011; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 49 attendees, growers 3)North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2011; sponsored by RCE and NJ NOFA,54 growers. On an international scale the The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our primary outreach component. The NC-140 web site also serves as an important collaboration tool for cooperators who can communicate via an e-mail list, and upload/download Project files to password-protected directories. The Internet registration for http://www.NC14.org/ continues to be maintained. The web site is hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. E-Mail Distribution List The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net Extension Out-Reach Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2011 we began using Google Analytics to track web traffic. We had 2,064 visits with 5,964 page views Research results are published in Horticultural News, a publication of the NJ State Horticultural Society and are adopted in our NJ Tree Fruit Production Guide for Tree Fruit. Information is also published for growers via our Rutgers Coop. Ext. weekly Fruit Plant and Pest Newsletter PARTICIPANTS: Participants: Winfred P Cowgill, Jr. is the principal investigator and project director. Cowgill is a Professor and Area Fruit Agent with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County. Cowgill develops, implements and evaluates educational programs and conducts applied research for commercial fruit growers in Hunterdon, Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Somerset counties; commercial vegetable growers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. He has statewide responsibility for apples. Cowgill conducts risk management programs for all northern NJ producers. Cowgill manages all aspects of the the NC140 project for NJ, insures adequate funding and personnel and oversees day to day project management. Prepares all reports and ensures data integrity. Dr. Daniel Ward is Extension Specialist in Pomology the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension. His responsibilities include horticulture of tree fruit and small fruit, including wine grapes, throughout the state of New Jersey. His research is applied and emphasizes creating and maintaining fruit quality of peaches and wine grapes as well as plant growth regulator use on fruits. Dan will oversee future peach rootstock trials and handles all data analysis for the project. Rebecca Magron is a research associate with NJAES and Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Provides support for plot treatments and oversees all data collection and preparation. NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Post Office Box 116 Clayton, New Jersey 08312. (856) 307-6450 FAX (856) 307-6476. njhortsociety@gmail.com The NJSHS has the oldest Horticultural Organization in NJ. The have provided long term financial support of NC140 projects in NJ. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers. Research results are presented at Twilight meetings and winter educational meetings. Research plots are toured at the Rutgers Snyder Farm in April http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ With the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org the target is US commercial fruit growers in 50 states. Growers in over 76 countries utilize our data and recommendations via the website. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    As part of the 2002 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial, a planting of 11 rootstocks were established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ with the Buckeye Gala as the scion. Rootstock affected TCSA where PiAu51-4 had the highest and B.9 Europe had the lowest TCSA. This has been consistent across the 10 years of this trial. 2010 NC140 Honecrisp Apple Trial; Notes: 2010- One B.71-7-22 rootstock broke at the graft union on planting date. It was never planted in the ground. Two CG.5222 rootstock broke at graft union before it was fully supported by trellis. All other trees survived through 2010. Comments: 2011 data, B.70-20-20 stock was the largest by TCSA with 6.41 cm2, with B.71-7-22 the smallest at 1.18 cm2 M.9T337 and CG.4814 had the largest number of root suckers at 2. Some fireblight infection occurred in 2011.

    Publications

    • Win Cowgill, Rebecca Magron, Suzanne Solnar-Figler, and Geff Slifer, Jon Clements, 2011. 2008 Tall Spindle Apple Trial. Horticultural News Vol 91(1) 18-19
    • D. Ward, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2011. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (242)


    Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: Activities -All protocols were followed in 2010. All data was collected in 2009. Maintenance pesticide applications were timed utilizing NJ's pest management protocols. All data was compiled and analyzed. Events/Outreach Results were disseminated in NJ via Extension Meetings and Field Days in Northern New Jersey Extension Meetings and Field Days: 1,North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2010; Broadway, NJ, 62 attendees, growers 2)North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2009; Wightman Farms, Morristown, NJ, 46 attendees, Commercial growers 3)North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting,co sponsered by NJ NOFA, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2010- 44 growers participating. On an international scale the The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our primary out reach component. The NC-140 web site also serves as an important collaboration tool for cooperators who can communicate via an e-mail list, and upload/download Project files to password-protected directories. The Internet registration for www.NC14.org continues to be maintained. The web site is hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by ARS and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. E-Mail Distribution List The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS.The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net Extension Out-Reach Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. Our website had 66,576 visits November 2009 to October 2010, significantly up from 44,600 in 2009. The monthly statistics were as follows: 5,660 average monthly visits 220 average monthly MB's 6,871 average monthly pages 6,500 average monthly hits. Research results disseminated in a number of ways. They are published in Horticultural News, www.horticulturalnews.org a publication of the NJ State Horticultural Society. Our research results are incorporated into our NJ Tree Fruit Production Guide, publication E002, for Tree Fruit for commercial growers. Timely weekly articles are published for growers in our online newsletter, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Fruit Plant and Pest Newsletter njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/plantandpestadvisory/ PARTICIPANTS: Participants: Winfred P Cowgill, Jr. is the principal investigator and project director. Cowgill is a Professor and Area Fruit Agent with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County. Cowgill develops, implements and evaluates educational programs and conducts applied research for commercial fruit growers in Hunterdon, Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Somerset counties; commercial vegetable growers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. He has statewide responsibility for apples. Cowgill conducts risk management programs for all northern NJ producers. Cowgill manages all aspects of the the NC140 project for NJ, insures adequate funding and personnel and oversees day to day project management. Prepares all reports and ensures data integrity. Dr. Daniel Ward is Extension Specialist in Pomology the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension. His responsibilities include horticulture of tree fruit and small fruit, including wine grapes, throughout the state of New Jersey. His research is applied and emphasizes creating and maintaining fruit quality of peaches and wine grapes as well as plant growth regulator use on fruits. Dan will oversee future peach rootstock trials and handles all data analysis for the project. Rebecca Magron is a research associate with NJAES and Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Provides support for plot treatments and oversees all data collection and preparation. NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Post Office Box 116 Clayton, New Jersey 08312. (856) 307-6450 FAX (856) 307-6476. njhortsociety@gmail.com The NJSHS has the oldest Horticultural Organization in NJ. The have provided long term financial support of NC140 projects in NJ. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers. Research results are presented at Twilight meetings and winter educational meetings. Research plots are toured at the Rutgers Snyder Farm in April http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ With the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org the target is US commercial fruit growers in 50 states. Growers in over 76 countries utilize our data and recommendations via the website. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

    Impacts
    New Jersey/UMASS G.16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial; Cameo is an important new cultivar for our direct sales oriented growers. General Comments: There were no significant differences in number of root suckers, percent burrknots, average fruit size, yield in 2010, yield efficiency during 2010 or cumulative yield from 2004 through 2010. TCSA was significantly different by rootstock where B.9 was the smallest. Rootstock had a significant effect on cumulative yield efficiency, where B.9 rootstock had the highest, and G16 had the lowest. 2002-NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial; the 2002 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial is a planting of 11 rootstocks, established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ with the Buckeye Gala as the scion. General Comments: Rootstock significantly effected TCSA where PiAu51-4 had the highest and B.9 Europe had the lowest TCSA. Both yield in 2010 and cumulative yield (2004-2010) were different by rootstock. B.9 Europe had the lowest yield in 2010 and cumulative yield, whereas P.14 had the highest yield in 2010 and cumulative yield. M.9 T337 had the highest yield efficiency during 2010 and B.9 Europe had the highest cumulative yield efficiency. Rootstock did not have a significant effect on the number of rootsuckers or average fruit weight during 2010. 2003 NC-140 Apple Physiology Trial; As part of the 2003 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial, a planting of Gibson Golden Delicious on 3 rootstocks was established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ. The planting included ten trees of each rootstock in a completely random design. Two guard rows were established with Gibson Golden Delicious. In 2010 a petal thinning spray was inadvertently imposed on the trial so the crop load hand thinning protocols were not implemented after consultation with the project coordinator. Trees are still weak from the severe hail injury to the wood and 2007. No treatments were imposed in 2010 and the trial is now terminated at the end of the 2010 season. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial NJ and MA -Apple Replant Disease (ARD)issues are becoming more prevalent in New Jersey. The NC-140 Regional Research Project on rootstocks is designed to address a number of high-priority areas in tree fruit production, one of which is ARD. Poor growth and survival are typical of apples replanted into apple ground due to ARD. General Comments: TCSA was significantly different by rootstock where the smallest was B.9, and was M.7 Both cumulative yield and yield during 2010 were different by rootstock. The highest yield in 2010 was on G.6210, and G. 5935 had the highest cumulative yield from 2007 though 2010. Rootstock B.9 had the least yield in 2010, and M.7 had the least cumulative yield from 2007 through 2010. Yield efficiency and cumulative yield efficiency were significantly different by rootstock. Rootstock G.4210 has the highest yield efficiency in 2010,while B.9 has the highest cumulative yield efficiency. Rootstock M.7 had the lowest cumulative yield efficiency in both 2010 and cumulative years.

    Publications

    • D. Ward, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk. 2010. "New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide." Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (242)
    • Autio, W., J. Krupa, J. Clements, W. Cowgill, and R. Magron. 2010. New NC-140 apple rootstock trials in Massachusetts and New Jersey in the spring of 2010. Fruit Notes 75(3):1-3.
    • Autio, W., J. Krupa, J. Clements, W. Cowgill, and R. Magron. 2010. New NC-140 apple rootstock trials in Massachusetts and New Jersey in the spring of 2010. Horticultural News 90(3):1-3.
    • Clements, J.M., W.P. Cowgill, and W.R. Autio. 2010. To-Date Performance of Three Dwarf Rootstocks in the 2002 NC-140 Apple/Cameo Rootstock Trial in Massachusetts and New Jersey. Fruit Notes, Vol. 75 Winter-Spring Issue. (In press.)


    Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: Activities -All protocols were followed in 2009. All data was collected in 2009. Maintenance pesticide applications were timed utilizing NJ's pest management protocols. All data was compiled and analyzed. Events/Outreach Results were disseminated in NJ via Extension Meetings and Field Days in Northern New Jersey Extension Meetings and Field Days: 1,North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2009; Broadway, NJ, 67 attendees, growers 2)North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2009; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 46 attendees, growers 3)North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2009; sponsored by RCE and NJ NOFA - 54 growers participating. On an international scale the The NC-140 web site, www.nc140.org continues to be our primary out reach component. The NC-140 web site also serves as an important collaboration tool for cooperators who can communicate via an e-mail list, and upload/download Project files to password-protected directories. The Internet registration for http://www.NC14.org/ continues to be maintained. The web site is hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. An online Filemaker database that is self-editing contains the cooperator contact information. Requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). Articles, photographs and reports were archived throughout the year. E-Mail Distribution List The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS.The posting Email address is nc140@virtualorchard.net Extension Out-Reach Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. Our website had 44,600 visits November 2008 to October 2009 The monthly statistics were as follows: 3,725 average monthly visits 220 average monthly MB's 4,397 average monthly pages 6,500 average monthly hits. Research results are published in Horticultural News, a publication of the NJ State Horticultural Society and are adopted in our NJ Tree Fruit Production Guide for Tree Fruit. Information is also published for growers via our Rutgers Coop. Ext. weekly Fruit Plant and Pest Newsletter PARTICIPANTS: Winfred P Cowgill, Jr. is the principal investigator and project director. Cowgill is a Professor and Area Fruit Agent with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County. Cowgill develops, implements and evaluates educational programs and conducts applied research for commercial fruit growers in Hunterdon, Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Somerset counties; commercial vegetable growers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. He has statewide responsibility for apples. Cowgill conducts risk management programs for all northern NJ producers. Cowgill manages all aspects of the the NC140 project for NJ, insures adequate funding and personnel and oversees day to day project management. Prepares all reports and ensures data integrity. Dr. Daniel Ward is Extension Specialist in Pomology the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension. His responsibilities include horticulture of tree fruit and small fruit, including wine grapes, throughout the state of New Jersey. His research is applied and emphasizes creating and maintaining fruit quality of peaches and wine grapes as well as plant growth regulator use on fruits. Dan will oversee future peach rootstock trials and handles all data analysis for the project. Rebecca Magron is a research associate with NJAES and Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Provides support for plot treatments and oversees all data collection and preparation. NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Post Office Box 116 Clayton, New Jersey 08312. (856) 307-6450 FAX (856) 307-6476. The NJSHS has the oldest Horticultural Organization in NJ. The have provided long term financial support of NC140 projects in NJ. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers. Research results are presented at Twilight meetings and winter educational meetings. Research plots are toured at the Rutgers Snyder Farm in April http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ With the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org the target is US commercial fruit growers in 50 states. Growers in over 76 countries utilize our data and recommendations via the website. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    New Jersey/UMASS G.16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial-. Information on its performance on G.16, M.9NAKBT377 and B.9 will assist us in making recommendations to growers.There were no significant differences in number of root suckers, percent burrknots, yield in 2009 or cumulative yield from 2004 through 2009. TCSA was significantly different (p<0.001) by rootstock where B.9 was the smallest and G16 and M.9T337 were significantly larger with no differences between them. B.9 also had the smallest average fruit size (P = 0.002) and B.9 had the highest yield efficiency in 2009 (p < 0.001) and cumulative yield efficiency (p < 0.001) 2002-NC-140 Gala Apple Rootstock Trial-Rootstock had a significant effect on TCSA in 2009(p<0.001) where PiAu51-4 had the highest and B.9 Europe had the lowest TCSA. Both yield in 2009 and cumulative yield (2004-2009) were different by rootstock. B.9 Europe had the lowest yield in 2009 and cumulative yield. Conversely P.14 and PiAu51-4 had the highest yield in 2009 and P.14 had the highest cumulative yield. B.9 Europe had the highest yield efficiency in 2009 (p<0.001) and cumulative yield efficiency (p<0.001). B.9 Europe also had the most root suckers (p<0.001) and the least average fruit weight (p=0.0167). M.9B756 had the highest average fruit weight. B.9 notes: Significant differences are showing between B.9Europe and B.9Treco. In NJ there are no differences in tree size, yield, yield efficiency, cumulative yield, cumulative yield efficiency. However of deep concern is the extensive burrknots showing on B.9Europe at 50% as compared to B.9Treco at 17% in 2008 data. B.9Europe also had significantly more suckers than B.9Treco in 2009 at 9.1 to 1.4 in 2009. As part of the 2003 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial, a NJ planting of Gibson Golden Delicious on 3 rootstocks was established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ. The planting included ten trees of each rootstock in a completely random design. Two guard rows were established with Gibson Golden Delicious. 2009 was another off year for this trial. Trees were still a bit weak from the severe hail injury to the wood and 2007. Treatment protocol will be applied in 2010. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial NJ and MA Cooperating- Shoot length was measured on all shoots in 2007-2009. From a procedural point of view the consistency of the shoot length and percentage short shoots results suggests that we could eliminate the work of measuring the short shoots. A statistical analysis of the shoot lenght procedure is underway. 2010 NC140 apple rootstock planting- Turf was establshed in August of 2009 for the anticipated establishment of the new apple trial in April 2010.

    Publications

    • Kimmel, D., D. Kluchinski, W. J. Sciarappa, W. Hlubik, J. Frecon, R. Samulis, M. Azzara, J. Flagler, R. Mickel, N. Polanin, J. Carleo, W. Cowgill, R. Obal, W. Walker, J. Ortiz, and G. Pavlis, G. 2009. Educating Farmers to Avoid Conflicts With Neighbors and Towns, Proceedings of the 94th Annual NACAA Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference, Portland. OR, p. 86.
    • Daniel L. Ward, Winfred Cowgill, Neil Vincent, Rebecca Magron, Thomas Gianfagna, 2009. Cytokinin for Chemical Fruit Thinning of Asian Pears. Published Abstract, HortScience
    • Cowgill, W., W. Autio, and J. Clements. 2009. Using naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) to reduce shoot growth with a heading cut is used to lower tree height in super-spindle apple trees. Presentation at NE Plant Growth Regulator Conference, Wilkes-Barre, PA
    • Extension Bulletin-D. Ward, Loki, G., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2008. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 total pages (232) Extension Newsletters-Cowgill, W., D. Polk. 2009. Dwarf Apples and Dogwood Borer. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.9.
    • Cowgill, W. 2009. Managing Apple Harvest with Retain in 2009 Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.16.
    • Cowgill, W., D. Polk. 2009. Japanese Beetle, Honeycrisp Apple and Sunburn Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.15.
    • Cowgill, W., J. Clements. 2009. Prune Cherries Right after Harvest to Control Bacterial Canker. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.13.
    • Cowgill, W., J. Clements. 2009. Video on Training Young Apple Leaders. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.11.
    • Clements, J., W. Cowgill. 2009. Pinch Apple Shoots to Control Growth. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.11.
    • Cowgill, W., J. Clements. 2009. Apple Training-Clothespins for Good Crotch Angles. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.11.
    • Cowgill, W.,W. Autio. 2009. Enhancing Return Bloom on Apple with Plant Growth Regulators. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.10.
    • Cowgill, W., 2009. Calcium Sprays on Apple Prevent Cork and Bitter Pit. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 14, No.9.


    Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: Activities All protocols were followed in 2008. All data was collected in 2008. Maintenance pesticide applications were timed utilizing NJ's pest management protocols. All data was compiled and analyzed. Events/Outreach Results were disseminated in NJ via Extension Meetings and Field Days North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2008; Broadway, NJ, 74 attendees, growers North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2008; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 44 attendees, growers South Jersey Field Day and Tour, August 2008; RAREC, Upper-Deerfield, NJ, 85 Attendees, Growers, Industry and Extension personnel North Jersey Twilight Horticultural Research Meeting, Rutgers Snyder Farm, September, 2008; sponsored by RCE and NJ NOFA - 66 growers participating. Service Extension Out-Reach is also Web Based. Cowgill and Clements maintain the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org which has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2008 over 35,000 page hits were received an increase of over 10% from the previous year. Visitors from over 76 countries were logged, an increase of 5%. Ninety percentage of page hits originated in the US. E-Mail Distribution List The projects Email distribution list is also maintained Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, MA. The posting e-mail address is nc140@virtualorchard.net PARTICIPANTS: Winfred P Cowgill, Jr. is the principal investigator and project director. Cowgill is a Professor and Area Fruit Agent with the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County. Cowgill develops, implements and evaluates educational programs and conducts applied research for commercial fruit growers in Hunterdon, Morris, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean and Somerset counties; commercial vegetable growers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. He has statewide responsibility for apples. Cowgill conducts risk management programs for all northern NJ producers. Cowgill manages all aspects of the the NC140 project for NJ, insures adequate funding and personnel and oversees day to day project management. Prepares all reports and ensures data integrity. Dr. Daniel Ward is Extension Specialist in Pomology the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station-Rutgers Cooperative Extension. His responsibilities include horticulture of tree fruit and small fruit, including wine grapes, throughout the state of New Jersey. His research is applied and emphasizes creating and maintaining fruit quality of peaches and wine grapes as well as plant growth regulator use on fruits. Dan will oversee future peach rootstock trials and handles all data analysis for the project. Rebecca Magron is a research associate with NJAES and Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Provides support for plot treatments and oversees all data collection and preparation. NEW JERSEY STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Post Office Box 116 Clayton, New Jersey 08312. (856) 307-6450 FAX (856) 307-6476. The NJSHS has the oldest Horticultural Organization in NJ. The have provided long term financial support of NC140 projects in NJ TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audience in NJ is commercial tree fruit producers. Research results are presented at Twilight meetings and winter educational meetings. Research plots are toured at the Rutgers Snyder Farm in April http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ With the NC140 website http://www.nc140.org the target is US commercial fruit growers in 50 states. Growers in over 76 countries utilize our data and recommendations via the website. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    New Jersey/UMASS G.16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial-. Information on its performance on G.16, M.9 NAKBT377 and B.9 will assist us in making recommendations to growers.Both yield and highest cumulative yield efficiency were significantly different among rootstocks with B.9 having the highest yield efficiency in 2008 and the highest cumulative yield efficiency from 2003-2008. Rootstock did not have a significant effect on yield, average fruit weight, cumulative yield, number of rootsuckers or percent burrknots. 2002-NC-140 Gala Apple Rootstock Trial-Rootstock had a significant effect on TCSA in 2008. B.9Europe had the smallest, while PiAu51-4 had the largest TCSA. Rootstock had a significant effect on the total yield. During 2008, B.9Europe had the smallest yield, and P.14, M.9T337, M.26NAKB, M.26EMLA and M.9B756 had the largest yields per tree. Yield efficiency was significantly different by rootstock. PiAu51-4 had the smallest, while B.9Europe and M.9T337 had the largest. Average fruit weight was smallest on B.9Europe and largest on Supp.4. Rootstock had a significant effect on cumulative yield from 2003 through 2008, where B.9Europe has the smallest versus M.26NAKB. Cumulative Yield Efficiency was also significantly different. There were significant differences in the occurrence of rootsuckers and percent burrknots. B.9Europe had the most rootsuckers and percent burrknots. Important notes on B.9: Significant differences are showing between B.9Europe and B.9Treco. In NJ there are no differences in tree size, yield, yield efficiency, cumulative yield, cumulative yield efficiency. There was a significant increase in fruit size with B.9Treco being larger than B.9Europe as measured in average fruit weight. Of deep concern is the extensive burrknots showing on B.9Europe at 50% as compared to B.9Treco at 17%. B.9Europe also had significantly more suckers than B.9Treco. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial NJ and MA Cooperating-Soil preparation began in spring 2005 with removal of existing apple trees. The soil was prepped with numerous tillage operations to remove all roots and debris in an 8-foot band. This band was kept fallow the remainder of 2005. Nematode samples were collected pre-fumigation in fall of 2005. Turf type tall fescue was established between the planting strips in Sept 2005. Soil fumigation with Telone was completed the fall of 2005 as one treatment. Trees were established according to protocol in April 2006. Ditera nematicide (Valent Bioscience) was applied post plant as a second treatment in five monthly applications. Shoot Length Measurements 2006 Apple Replant Disease Trial Shoot length was measured on all shoots in 2007-From a procedural point of view the consistency of the shoot length and percentage short shoots results suggests that we could eliminate the work of measuring the short shoots.2003 NC-140 Apple Physiology Trial- This year was the off year for this trial. Hail destroyed 100% of the fruit in this trial on 17 August 2007 so no yield or fruit size data was taken in 08. Rootstock significantly affected TCSA as well as number of root suckers per tree.

    Publications

    • D. Ward, Loki, G., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2008. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 (232pp)
    • Jon M. Clements, Win Cowgill, Wesley R. Autio, and Daniel Ward. 2008. Five-year performance of three dwarf apple rootstocks with Cameo Apple. HortScience. 43(4): 1194 (Abstr)
    • Autio, W., T. Robinson, W. Cowgill, C. Hampson, M. Kushad, G. Lang, J. Masabni, D. Miller, R. Parra Quezada, and C. Rom. 2009. Performance of Gala apple trees on supporter 4 and different strains of B.9, M.9, and M.26 rootstocks as part of the 2002 NC-140 apple rootstock trial. Acta Hort. 11 pp. (in press).
    • Winfred P. Cowgill, Jr., Nicholas Polanin, Peter Nitzsche, Rebecca Magron, Joseph Gyurian, Edwin Dager. 2008. Rutgers NJAES Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Master Gardener involvement in research, extension and community outreach. HortScience. 43(4): 1174 (Astr)
    • Win Cowgill, Wesley R. Autio, Jon M. Clements. 2008. Using Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) To Reduce Shoot Growth When A Heading Cut Is Used To Lower Tree Height In Super-Spindle Apple Trees. Rutgers Annual Conf.
    • Autio, W., T. Robinson, W. Cowgill, C. Hampson, M. Kushad, J. Masabni, R. Parra Quezada, R. Perry and C. Rom. 2008. Performance of Gala apple trees on Supporter 4, P.14, and different strains of B.9, M.9 and M.26 rootstocks: a five-year report on the 2002 NC-140 apple rootstock trial. J. Amer. Pomol. Soc. 62(3):119-128.
    • Autio, W., T. Robinson, W. Cowgill, C. Hampson, M. Kushad, J. Masabni, D. Miller, R. Quezada, R. Perry, and C. Rom. 2007. Performance of Gala apple trees on strains of B.9, M.9, and M.26 and new Cornell-Geneva, Morioka, and Pillnitz rootstocks: Early results from the 2002 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial. Compact Fruit Tree 40. (In press).


    Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: Activities-Four apple rootstock trials are ongoing at the Rutgers Snyder Farm Including; New Jersey/UMASS G.16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial-B.9 was the smallest stock by Trunk Cross Sectional Area (TCSA), G.16 the largest. Total yield for 2007 varied significantly among rootstock where B.9 had the lowest and G.16 had the highest. Rootstock had a significant effect on average individual fruit weight, where B.9 had the greatest average individual fruit weight. Rootstock had no significant effect on yield efficiency in 2007, cumulative yield from 2003-2007. Rootstock did have a significant effect on cumulative yield efficiency from 2003-2007 with B.9 having the highest cumulative yield efficiency. 2002-NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial-Rootstocks affected TCSA, yield, yield efficiency, cumulative yield, cumulative yield efficiency, root suckers and burrknots. Rootstock had a significant effect on TCSA in 2007. Rootstock had a significant effect on total yield in 2007. Significant differences are showing between B.9Europe and B.9Treco. In NJ there are no differences in tree size, yield, yield efficiency, cumulative yield, cumulative yield efficiency or average fruit weight. Of deep concern is the extensive burrknots showing on B.9Europe at 68% as compared to B.9Treco at 10.7%. 2003 NC-140 Apple Physiology Trial-Hail destroyed 100% of the fruit in this trial on 17 August 2007 so no yield or fruit size data was taken. Rootstock significantly affected TCSA as well as number of root suckers per tree. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial-TCSA was significantly different with both treatment and rootstock. Yield (Kg) was significantly different with both treatment and rootstock. Yield Eff. (kg/cm2) was significantly different with treatment and rootstock. Average individual fruit weight (gm) was significantly different with rootstock effect. Fruit Count was significantly different with both treatment and rootstock. All data was collected, analyzed and a NJ report was prepared, available on the website, and a complete project report was compiled from each state report. Events-Extension Meetings and Field Days; North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2007; Broadway, NJ, 78 growers attended, North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2007; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 46 attendees, South Jersey Field Day and Tour, August 2007; RAREC, Upper-Deerfield, NJ, 142 Attendees, Growers, Industry and Extension personnel. Services-The projects Email distribution list is maintained by Win Cowgill, NJAES and Jon Clements, UMASS. The posting e-mail address is nc140@virtualorchard.net Dissemination-Our focus is Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. Win Cowgill, NJAES and Jon Clements, UMASS host and maintain the site. An online Filemaker database contains the cooperator contact information. In 2007 over 35,000 page hits were received an increase of over 10% from the previous year. Visitors from over 76 countries were logged, an increase of 5%. PARTICIPANTS: Winfred P. Cowgill, Jr -is a Professor and County Agricultural Agent with Rutgers NJAES. He has worked for Rutgers Cooperative Extension as an area fruit agent for the past 30 years conducting over 150 applied research and demonstration trials on both grower farms and at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm (16 years). Cowgill has published over 300 articles in popular press, newsletters, extension publications and refereed journal articles. He has developed extension methodology for worldwide dissemination of information and technology primarily web based. Dan Ward-is extension specialist for pomology and viticulture and has statewide extension responsibility for the fruit industry of New Jersey. Currently he conducts an applied research and extension program addressing production problems of tree fruit, small fruit and wine grapes. He has experience with a range of fruit production and management research. Dr. Ward has conducted research on chemical fruit thinning in stone fruit and in apples both within the context of academia and in private industry. In addition to his experience as a horticultural researcher, Dr. Ward has expertise in experimental design and data analysis and worked for over 7 years as a professional statistical consultant in the life sciences. Partners- Hunterdon County Board of Chosen Freeholders, New Jersey State Horticulture Society TARGET AUDIENCES: Commercial Fruit Growers in North America, Tree Fruit Nurseries, Extension Personell Efforts Our focus is Web Based-The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. Win Cowgill, NJAES and Jon Clements, UMASS host and maintain the site. An online Filemaker database contains the cooperator contact information. In 2007 over 35,000 page hits were received an increase of over 10% from the previous year. Visitors from over 76 countries were logged, an increase of 5%.

    Impacts
    Change in Knowledge-New Jersey fruit growers directly benefit from the NC-140 research plots located in NJ. NC140 trials are located at the Rutgers Sndyer Research Farm. New Jersey results are published as recommendations in New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide, NJ Plant and Pest Newsletters-Fruit Edition and New Jersey Horticultural News. NC-140 cooperators oversee the development, acquisition, and evaluation of new rootstock material. Rapid evaluation of that material results in the ability of North American orchardists and to benefit from its use with a better understanding of performance (productivity, precocity, efficiency, and pest susceptibility) and therefore less risk of failure. Change in Action-Utilization of NC-140 recommendations resulted in significantly earlier returns on investments related to tree establishment. Since 1992 over 99% of the new apple trees planted in NJ have been on dwarfing rootstock. Mature yields increased by 20% per acre, fruit size was 10% greater, and the percent meeting the highest grade category increased by 20%. Because new apple plantings being primarily in the dwarf category (with substantially reduced canopy volume per acre), pesticide usage on the new acreage was reduced by nearly 40%, with the associated environmental benefit plus $100,000,00 saved over the 5-year period in pesticide cost and application across the US. Because of the use of disease-resistant rootstocks and better selection of susceptible rootstocks, tree losses declined by 10% over the 5-year period.

    Publications

    • D. Ward, Loki, G., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2007. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002 Cowgill, W., D. Polk, June, 2007. Dwarf Apples and Dogwood Borer. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant and Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 12, No.11 Cowgill, W., February, 2007. Thoughts on Apple Tree Training and Pruning. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 11(31) Marini, R.P., B.H. Barritt, G.R.Brown, J.Cline, W.P. Cowgill, Jr., R.M. Crassweller, P.A. Domoto, D.C. Ferree, J. Garner, G.M Greene, C. Hampson, , P. Hirst, M.M. Kushad, J. Masabni, E. Mielke, R. Moran, C.A. Mullins, M. Parker, R.L. Perry, J.P. Prive, G.L. Reighard, T. Robinson, C.R. Rom, T. Roper, J.R. Schupp, E. Stover, and R. Unrath. 2006. Performance of Gala Apple on Four Semi-dwarf Rootstocks: A Ten-year Summary of the 19


    Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

    Outputs
    The 2001 peach planting (Redhaven cv) had 7 rootstocks with significantly smaller mean trunk crossectional areas than Lovell (VVA-1, Jaspi, K146-43, Julior, Bailey, K146-44, and P30-135). Of these 7 smaller rootstocks Bailey had significantly higher cumulative yield efficiency than Lovell (0.90 vs. 0.63 kg fruit/cm2 TCA) but, the others were not different from Lovell. As of 2006 the 2002 peach planting (Cresthaven cv) had four rootstocks with significantly smaller mean trunk cross sectional areas than Lovell (VSV-1, VVA-1, Penta, MRS 2/5, and Adesoto 101). Cumulative yield efficiency was not significantly different among rootstocks in the 2002 planting. 1998 NC140 CG-16 Jonagold Rootstock trial - In 2006 there were no significant differences in yield, yield efficiency, or Trunk Cross Sectional Area between CG 16 to the standard M9 EMLA. There were no cumulative yield and yield efficiency differences for 2000-2006 between these stocks. This trial will be terminated after the 2006 growing season. In the New Jersey/UMASS G16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial, B9 was the smallest stock by TCSA, G16 the largest. B9 was the most yield efficient stock in 2006 and had the largest cumulative yield efficiency (2003-2006). B9 and M9337 had significantly higher average fruit weight over G16 in 2006. 2002-NC-140 Gala Apple Rootstock Trial consists of 11 rootstocks. There was no significant difference in average fruit size, yield or yield efficiency between stocks. Rootstocks affected TCSA, cumulative yield and cumulative yield efficiency at the end of the 5th growing season. The largest trees at the end of 2006 were PiAu51-4 and P. 14 and the smallest trees were B.9 Europe followed B.9Treco. B.9Europe and B.9 Treco stocks had the highest cumulative yield and efficiency. There were no significant differences in average fruit size. 2003 NC-140 Apple Physiology Trial- There was a significant interaction effect of crop load and rootstock on average fruit weight (P=0.0040). Fruit weight decreased linearly with increasing crop load on the G16 and M26 but not on R337 (Fig 1). There was also a significant interaction effect of crop load and rootstock on TCA growth from 2005 to 2006 (P=0.0019). TCA growth decreased linearly with increasing crop load on G16 and R337 but not on M26. 2006 NC140 Apple Replant Trial NJ and MA Cooperating- At the end of the 2006 growing season G.4210 was the smallest stock and G.5935 was the largest. G.4210 had the largest increase in circumference from spring to fall in 2006. B.9 had the smallest increase in circumference. Extension Meetings and Field Days -North Jersey Fruit Meeting, March 2006; Broadway, NJ, 82 attendees, growers North Jersey Twilight Fruit Meeting, April, 2006; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 42 attendees, growers North Jersey Horticultural Research Twilight Mtg., September, 2006; Snyder Farm, Pittstown, NJ, 78 attendees, organic and conventional growers South Jersey Field Day and Tour, August 2006; RAREC, Upper-Deerfield, NJ, 160 Attendees, Growers, Industry and Extension personnel The NC140 web site was hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS at http://www.NC14.org/.

    Impacts
    New Jersey commercial tree fruit growers directly benefit from the NC-140 research plots located in NJ. NC140 trials are located at the Rutgers Sndyer Research Farm and The Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center. 362 fruit growers toured and observed the NC140 research plots at three twilight meetings at Snyder Farm in 2006 and one open house grower meeting at RAREC in 2006. Since 1992 over 99% of the new apple trees planted in NJ have been on dwarfing rootstock as a direct result of NC140. NC-140, Rootstock and Interstem Effects on Pome and Stone Fruit Tree projects have had significant positive impacts on the tree fruit industry in NJ and nationwide. Utilization of NC-140 recommendations resulted in significantly earlier returns on investments related to tree establishment. Mature yields increased by 20% per acre, fruit size was 10% greater resulting in more net to the grower. Overall, the work of NC-140 resulted in recommendations and educational programs which guided planting of 1400 acres of fruit trees over the last five years in NJ. On the environmental side pesticide usage on the new acreage was reduced by nearly 20% due to smaller tree size (dwarf trees). New Jersey NC140 research results are published as recommendations in New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide, NJ Plant and Pest Newsletters-Fruit Edition and New Jersey Horticultural News.

    Publications

    • Lokaj, G, W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen 2006. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002
    • Robinson, T., L. Anderson, A/ Azarenko, B. Barritt, G. Brown, J. Cline, R. Crassweller, P. Domoto, C. Embree, A. Fennell, D. Ferree, E. Garcia, A. Gaus, G. Greene, C. Hampson, P. Hirst, E. Hoover, S. Johnson, M. Kushad, R. Marini, R. Moran, C. Johnson, M. Parker, G. Reighard, R. Perry, J.P. Prive, C. Rom, T. Roper, J. Schupp, M. Warmund, W. Autio, W. Cowgill, K. Taylor, D. Wolfe 2004. Performance Of Cornell-Geneva Rootstocks in Mnulti Location NC-140 Rootstock Trials Across North America. Acta Hort. 658:241-245.
    • Marini, R.P., B.H. Barritt, G.R.Brown, J.Cline, W.P. Cowgill, Jr., R.M. Crassweller, P.A. Domoto, D.C. Ferree, J. Garner, G.M Greene, C. Hampson, , P. Hirst, M.M. Kushad, J. Masabni, E. Mielke, R. Moran, C.A. Mullins, M. Parker, R.L. Perry, J.P. Prive, G.L. Reighard, T. Robinson, C.R. Rom, T. Roper, J.R. Schupp, E. Stover, and R. Unrath 2006. Performance of Gala Apple on Four Semi-dwarf Rootstocks: A Ten-year Summary of the 1994 NC-140 Semi-Dwarf Rootstock Trial, Journal American Pomological Society, April, 2006, Vol. 60(2)58-68
    • Marini, R.P., W.R. Anderson, W.R. Autio, B.H. Barritt, J.Cline, W.P. Cowgill, Jr., R.M. Crassweller, R.M. Garner, A. Gauss, R. Godin, G.M Greene, C. Hampson, P. Hirst, M.M. Kushad, J. Masabni, E. Mielke, R. Moran, C.A. Mullins, M. Parker, R.L. Perry, J.P. Prive, G.L. Reighard, T. Robinson, C.R. Rom, T. Roper, J.R. Schupp, E. Stover, and R. Unrath 2006. Performance of Gala Apple on 18 Dwarfing Rootstocks: Ten-year Summary of the 1994 NC-140 Semi-Dwarf Rootstock Trial, Journal American Pomological Society, April, 2006, Vol. 60(2)69-83
    • Cowgill, W., D. Polk., July, 2006. Dwarf Apples and Dogwood Borer. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 11, No. 14.
    • Cowgill, W., 2006.Thoughts on Apple Tree Training and Pruning. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 10, No. 30
    • Cowgill, W., J. Compton, June, 2006. Foliar Calcium Benefits in Apple. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 11, No. 11.
    • Autio, W., Cowgill, W., 2006. Whoaa! Out of Control? Consider Controlling Tops-Only of Vigorous Dwarf Apples. Umass Amherst Extension, University of Massachusetts Fruit Program, Healthy Fruit, Vol. 14, Issue 6
    • Autio, W., W. Cowgill, 2006. Consider Controlling the Tops of Your Overly Vigorous Dwarf Apple Trees. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition, Vol. 11, No. 6


    Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05

    Outputs
    1998 NC140 CG-16 Jonagold Rootstock Trial compares CG 16 to the standard M9 EMLA. There were do significant differences in TCSA, cumulative yield, cumulative and yield efficiency. In 2005 M9 had a significantly higher yield and higher yield efficiency than G16. New Jersey/UMASS G16 Cameo NC140 Rootstock Trial was estabished in 2002 at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ and at UMASS Cold Spring Orchard Research and Education Center, Belchertown, MA. The cultivar was Cameo on B.9, G.16 and M.9 NAKBT377. B9 was the smallest stock by TCSA, G16 the largest. B9 was the most yield efficient stock in 2005 and also in cumulative yield efficiency 2003-2005. B9 also significantly increased average fruit weight. 2002 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial, consists of 11 rootstocks established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ with the Buckeye Gala as the scion. Rootstocks affected TCSA, Yield, cumulative yield and cumulative yield efficiency at the end of the 4th growing season. The largest trees at the end of 2005 were PiAu51-4 and P. 14 and the smallest trees were B.9Europe followed B9Treco. B9Europe and B9 Treco stocks had the highest Cumulative yield efficiency. There were no significant differences in average fruit size.Cultivars include Myra Red Fuji, Braeburn, Imperial Gala and Morrans JonaGoRed Jonagold. Means from 2005 are included in Tables 4. Split plot ANOVA with cultivar as the main-plot factor and rootstock as the sub-plot factor. NJ CG30 trial, CG30 was the largest tree as measured by TCSA and had significantly higher cumulative yield as compared to M26. However average fruit weight was greater on M26 trees. There was no statistically significant cultivar x rootstock interaction. 2003 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Physiology Trial. In 2005 M26 had the largest TCSA and M9-337 was the smallest. Cumulative yield efficiency was greatest on M9337 and G16. There were no statistically significant differences on yield for 2005 or cumulative yield for 2004-2005. The 2001 peach trial trees on Cadaman rootstock in 2005 had the largest TCSA (88.7 cm2). Slap rootstocks produced the next largest trees (84.3 cm2), followed by BH-4 (81.7 cm2) and Lovell (81.3 cm2). TCSA data for rootstocks producing trees of the smallest trees is consistent with 2004 data: VVA-1 (38.3 cm2), Jaspi and K146-43 (45.4 and 46.3 cm2), followed by K146-44 (54.2 cm2) and P30-135 (58.0 cm2). Trees on Julior and VVA-1 rootstocks exhibited the poorest ability to survive. Trees on BH-4 rootstocks produced the highest yield (14.5 kg/tree) followed by Lovell (13.2kg/tree), Cadaman (12.4 kg/tree), and Slap (12.2 kg/tree). In the 2002 trial Cadaman rootstock had the largest TCSA (72.0 cm2). Pumiselect produced the highest yielding trees at 9.1 kg/tree, Cadaman was next 8.6 kg/tree followed by Lovell with 7.5 kg/tree. The lowest yielding trees in the 2002 planting were on VVA-1 rootstock 1.6 kg/tree, followed by Penta 2.2 kg/tree) and Adesto 101 at 4.2 kg/tree.

    Impacts
    New Jersey apple growers are gaining first hand knowledge of these stocks. Growers continue to switch too more dwarfing stocks and need research based performance information under NJ growing conditions. This blocks have served as a demonstration site to bring growers anticipating establishing new apple blocks. Specific recommendations are being made to NJ growers with information based on performance of rootstocks in these trials. The wholesale peach industry in NJ is at a crossroads. Extreme competition from California and loss of market share has caused significant peach acreage in be removed (>2000 acres) in two years. Healthy, longer-lived productive peach rootstocks are essential in order for NJ growers to remain competitive. Several of these stocks hold promise for the NJ industry and should assist in the NJ industry stablizing it speach production base. Website-We continue to maintain our Internet registration for our website at http://www.NC14.org/. The web site was hosted and maintained by Win Cowgill, NJ and Jon Clements, UMASS. The NC140 website has become a significant tool for extension outreach and dissemination of research results. In 2004 over 26,000 page hits were received averaging 71 per day. Visitors from over 70 countries were logged. 40% of page hits originated in the US.

    Publications

    • S.S. Miller, R.W. McNew, B.H. Barritt, L. Berkett, S.K. Brown, J.A. Kline, J.M. Clements, W.P. Cowgill, R.M. Crassweller, M.E. Garcia, D.W. Green, G.M. Green, C.R. Hampson, I. Merwin, D.D. Miller, R.E. Moran, C.R. Rom, T.R. Roper, J.R. Schupp, E. Stover, 2005. Effect of Cultivar and Site on Fruit Quality as Demonstrated by the NE-183 Regional Project on Apple Cultivars. HortTechnology 15(4):886-895


    Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

    Outputs
    Weather for the 2003 growing season was extremely variable. Cool cloudy weather persisted through May and June delaying boom, affected fruit set and delayed fruit maturity 3-10 days. Delayed maturity lasted through to the end of the season with some cultivars. 1994 NC-140 Apple Trials-Dwarf and Semi Dwarf plantings are established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm in Pittstown New Jersey. All 2003 data has been collected. This is the data collection for this trial. In 2003 TCSA, rootsuckers, yield and average fruit weight were affected by rootstock. M.26 ELMA and V.1 were the largest trees and P22 the smallest followed by M.27 Emla.M.9 Fleuren 56 and P.2 had the largest number of suckers. M.9 EMLA, M.9 PAJAM 1, M.9 PAJAM 2, M.9 RN29, M.26 EMLA and V1 had the greatest cumulative yields. Cumulatively (1996-2003), the most efficient trees were on P.22, BUD 491, V3M.9 FLUREN 56 and M.9 PAJAM 1. In the semi dwarf-planting P1 was significantly larger than the others. Both G.30 and P1 had extensive rootsuckers. G.30 has the highest cumulative (1996-2003) yield efficiency. In 2003 G.30 had the highest yield followed V.2, M.26 and P.1 respectively. There is no statistical difference between the cumulative yields of the 4 rootstocks. New Jersey 1998 NC140 CG-16 Jonagold Rootstock Trial. Established in 1998, this trial compares CG 16 to the standard M9 EMLA for precocity, wooly apple aphid and fire blight resistance, as well as overall performance. There were do differences in TCSA, yield, cumulative yield, yield efficiency, cumulative yield efficiency and average fruit weight. New Jersey/UMASS Cameo Rootstock Trial In 2002, a trial was established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ and at UMASS Cold Spring Orchard Research and Education Center, Belchertown, MA. Rootstocks affected trunk circumference, G16 was significantly larger than B9 or M.9 NAKBT377 at the end of the 2003 growing season. There were no statistical differences in yield, average fruit weight or root suckering in 2003.2002-NC-140 Apple Rootstock Trial As part of the 2002 NC140 Apple Rootstock Trial a planting of 11 rootstocks were established were established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ with the Buckeye as the scion. The trial planting included seven replications in a randomized complete block design. Tree growth and tree establishment were excellent. Rootstocks affected TCSA and Yield at the end of the 2nd growing season, 2003. The largest trees at the end of 2003 were P. 14 and PiAu51-4 and the smallest were B.9, both strains. M.26 NAKB and B.9 (Europe) had significantly higher yields in 2003 than the other cultivars. New Jersey G.30 x M. 26 with Four Cultivars established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown NJ in a randomized block experiment in a split-plot design with 10 replications. Fuji on M.26 and G.30 were the largest trees. Braeburn on G.30 had the cumulative yield from 1999-2003 and was significant. 2003 NC-140 Apple Rootstock Physiology Trial, After the first growing season, rootstock did not affect trunk cross-sectional area.

    Impacts
    Growers in New Jersey continue to adopt the use of dwarfing apple rootstocks along with the adoption of high density plantings. This can directly be attributed to the results and recommendations from the NC-140 research and the extensive extension outreach program regarding new dwarfing apple rootstocks. NC140 research plantings have been established in NJ since 1984. Data from the 1999 NJ Orchard and Vineyard Survey by the NJ Agricultural Statistics Service show that apple tree plantings in NJ for the 6 years prior totaled 56,958 trees on size controlled clonal rootstocks as compared to only 416 trees on seedling rootstock. New rootstocks for stone fruit of greater genetic diversity are being tested and hold greater potential to improve tree efficiency, and increase insect and disease resistance than rootstocks currently in use. Grower support and interest in increasing tree longevity, and imparting peach borer resistance is apparent by their interest, comments, and association support.

    Publications

    • Belding, R.D., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2003 "New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide." Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002O.
    • Schupp, J., W.P. Cowgill, Jr., T.R. Robinson, J. Compton. 2003. Water Conditioners and Surfactants Increase Growth Control and Fruit Cracking of Empire Apple caused by Prohexadione-calcium. HortScience.
    • Cowgill, W.P.. Jr., Compton, J., Maletta, M., Belding, R. Goffreda, J. Polk, D. Tietjen, W. 2002. NE183 Apple Cultivar Trials-New Jersey 200 Report. Horticultural News, Vol. 82 (4).


    Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02

    Outputs
    The progress for 2002 is as follows: 1994 Dwarf Gala Apple Trial-M9 EMLA, M9 Pajam 1, M9 Pajam 2, V1, M9-RN29, and M26 had the highest cumulative yield. There were no statistically differences between these rootstocks. 1994 Semi-Dwarf Gala Apple Trial-G30 and M26 have the highest cumulative yields as compared to V2 and P1. New Jersey G-30 Trial-Four cultivars on CG30 are being compared to M26 in a experiment established in 1997. Cultivars include Myra Red Fuji, Braeburn, Imperial Gala and Morrans JonaGoRed. There was no statistically significant cultivar x rootstock interactions. We may be seeing a sensitivity to heavy soils in the 1994 NC-140 Semi-Dwarf Rootstock trial that has not been widely documented. 2002 Peach Trial was established at the Rutgers REARC center, no tree loss recorded even though the trees were under drought stress this season. Installation of a 5 ft., two strand electric deer fence early this fall successfully kept deer from entering this block. A New Jersey/UMASS Cameo G-16 Trial was established in 2002. Cameo is an important new cultivar for direct sales oriented growers. Performance on G16, will be compared to M9 (337) and B9. A New Jersey/UMASS Super Slender Spindle Apple Trial was established in both states, as a grower demonstration comparing 15 cultivars in this training system utilizing full dwarfing stocks. The NC-140 2002 Apple Rootstock Trial was established at the Rutgers Snyder farm with no tree loss and excellent growth of all trees. A New Jersey-UMASS Cameo G-16 Trial was established in 2002. Cameo is an important new cultivar for our direct sales oriented growers. Information on its performance on G16, M9 (337) and B9 will assist us in making recommendations to growers.The NC-140 website at http://www.NC14.org/ is maintained by Win Cowgill, Rutgers and Jon Clements UMASS. Web based registration for the technical meetings was available though the site. Articles, photographs and reports are archived at the site. All requirements for web page design for regional projects have been met as outlined by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) and the North Central Regional Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NCRA). A self editing data base for member contact data is also provided. The NC-140 E-Mail Distribution List is maintained by Win Cowgill, Rutgers and Jon Clements, UMASS.

    Impacts
    Growers in New Jersey continue to adopt the use of dwarfing apple rootstocks along with the adoption of high density plantings. This can directly be attributed to the results and recommendations from the NC-140 research and the extensive extension outreach program regarding new dwarfing apple rootstocks. NC140 research plantings have been established in NJ since 1984. Data from the 1999 NJ Orchard and Vineyard Survey by the NJ Agricultural Statistics Service show that apple tree plantings in NJ for the 6 years prior totaled 56,958 trees on size controlled clonal rootstocks as compared to only 416 trees on seedling rootstock. New rootstocks for stone fruit of greater genetic diversity are being tested and hold greater potential to improve tree efficiency, and increase insect and disease resistance than rootstocks currently in use. Grower support and interest in increasing tree longevity, and imparting peach borer resistance is apparent by their interest, comments, and association support.

    Publications

    • Belding, R.D., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2002. "New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide." Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002P, 160 pages
    • Schupp, J., W.P. Cowgill, Jr., T.R. Robinson, J. Compton. 2002. :Water Conditioners and Surfactants Increase Growth Control and Fruit Cracking of Empire Apple caused by Prohexadione-calcium" Accepted for publication in HortScience
    • Clements, J., W. Cowgill, 2002. Nova Scotia: A Tradition of Old and New Apple Growing. American Fruit Grower, Vol. 122(09)


    Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01

    Outputs
    NC-140. New Jersey has Numerous NC140 Plantings as follows: Stone Fruit: 1994 Apricot - Two plantings were established in 1994, one at the Snyder Research and Extension Farm in Pittstown and another at the Fruit Research and Development Center in Cream Ridge. This trial will be terminated in 2000 following the final data collection. NJPC 5 (PlumCot hybrid) a New Jersey hybrid, was the most efficient and disease resistant stock in this trial. In 2001 an experiment was implemented to find the most efficient means to asexually propagate NJPC 5. Only Marginal success was obtained. 1994-Peach- two locations-Rutgers Sndyer Farm and Bridgeton-Both terminated at the end of 2001 2001 Peach Planting-Bridgeton, NJ. Fifteen cultivars, 132 trees were planted with Redhaven as the scion. Only 3 of the new cultivars are Prunus persica in origin, the remainder are of wider genetic origin with significantly greater potential for discovery of desirable traits. Of the rootstocks included in the 1984 and the 1994 peach plantings, none tested (all Prunus persica) superior to Lovell in yield or survival. Pome Fruit 1994-Dwarf and Semi Dwarf Apple-Rutgers Sndyer Farm-Both plantings are established at the Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm in Pittstown New Jersey. 1997- New Jersey CG-30-Trial Rutgers Sndyer Farm- Four cultivars on CG30 are being compared to M26 in a replicated randomized block experiment that was established in 1997. Cultivars include Myra Red Fuji, Braeburn, Imperial Gala and Morrans JonaGoRed. There has been a lot of interest by NJ growers with CG 30 rootstock.. We may be seeing a sensitivity to heavy soils in the 1994 NC-140 Semi-Dwarf Rootstock trial that has not been widely documented. 1998-New Jersey CG-16 Rootstock Trial- Rutgers Sndyer Farm- this trial compares CG 16 to the standard M9 EMLA for precocity, wooly apple aphid and fire blight resistance, as well as overall performance. Jonagold on M26 had higher average fruit weight than Jonagold on G16. Website We continue to maintain our internet registration for our website at http://www.NC140.org/. The web site was maintained by Win Cowgill-Rutgers and Jon Clements-UMASS. Articles, photographs and reports will continue to be archived at this site.

    Impacts
    The best rootstocks for New Jersey growers can be identified from these trials. Local evaluation tied to data evaluated from across North America enables Cooperative Extension to make the best recommendations to our NJ commercial fruit growers that science can provide. Identifying disease resistant, dwarfing, precocious rootstocks will help our commercial tree fruit growers remain economically viable. Growers will adopt the best of these rootstocks for planting in their orchards.

    Publications

    • Hirst, P.M. and NC-140 Cooperators Cowgill, W.P., Jr. and 23 Others 2001. Early Performance of Gala on 18 dwarf and 4 semi-dwarf rootstocks growing at 24 sites in North America. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 557:199-208 http://www.actahort.org/books/557/557_27.htm
    • Cowgill, W.J., Jr., J. Compton 2001. North Jersey Tree Fruit Annual Report-Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E002N
    • Cowgill, W.P., Compton, J.M., Adickes, D. 2001. New Bloom Thinner for Apples. Horticultural News, Vol. 81 (3) 6-9
    • Cowgill, W., Clements, Jon 2000. Orchard Production Beyond 2000.. American Fruit Grower, Vol. 120(11)
    • Cowgill, W., J. Clements, 2001. New Zealand Conference Video. Compact Fruit Tree Vol 34 (2)
    • Compton J., W.P. Cowgill, Jr, W.H. Tietjen, 2001. A Review of Cherry Fruit Fly From The Eastern USA Perspective 4th International Cherry Symposium-Advances in Cherry Genetics, Physiology, Technology, Management, 24-29 June 2001 Abstract Book
    • W. Cowgill, J. Comptom, M. Maletta, 2001 Five Year Performance of Six Sweet Cherry cultivars on Five Dwarfing Rootstocks. 4th International Cherry Symposium-Advances in Cherry Genetics, Physiology, Technology, Management, 24-29 June 2001 Abstract Book
    • Belding, R.D., W.P. Cowgill Jr., J.L. Frecon, G.C. Hamilton, J.R. Heckman, L.S. Katz, N. Lalancette, B.A. Majek, D. Polk, P.W. Shearer, W.H. Tietjen. 2001. New Jersey Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E00N
    • Cowgill, W. September, 2001. North Jersey Apple Maturity Update. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol. 6., (24)
    • Reighard, G. L. and NC-140 Cooperators, (including R.D. Belding, W.P. Cowgill, Jr.). 2001. Five-year performance of 19 peach rootstocks at 20 sites in North America. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 557:97-102. http://www.actahort.org/books/557/557_11.htm Come surprise me


    Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00

    Outputs
    NC-140 OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the performance of pome- and stone fruit rootstocks in various environments and under different management systems. To assess and improve asexual propagation techniques of pome and stone fruit rootstocks. To improve the ability to identify pome and stone fruit rootstocks through morphological, biochemical, and genetic differences. To develop new and better pome- and stone fruit rootstocks through breeding and genetic engineering, and to acquire new rootstocks from breeding programs in other parts of the world. To determine biotic and abiotic stress tolerances of pome- and stone fruit trees in relation to new and existing rootstocks. Stone Fruit: The approach is a field based integrated evaluation of new potential commercial rootstocks for peaches and nectarines. In 1994 a study was initiated in 28 states to evaluate 17 new or standard rootstocks. Each year trees are evaluated for mortality, growth, bloom date, ripe date, crop yield, and fruit size. Data recorded from all cooperating sites is pooled, evaluated, and reported in various publications. In addition, separate more specific studies are undertaken at individual locations. In 2001 and 2002, two more plantings of newly available stocks will be tested in Bridgeton NJ. Fifteen cultivars from newly available programs, particularly from Eastern Europe and Asia are now available. In the 2001 planting, Fifteen cultivars, 132 trees will be included. Only 3 of the new cultivars are Prunus persica in origin. Of the 1984 and the 1994 plantings, none of the stocks tested (all Prunus persica) were superior to Lovell in yield or survival.

    Impacts
    Researchers and growers support this environmentally diverse evaluation of the rootstocks as the most efficient method of testing new materials from the selections over a broad range of environments. Early rouging of rootstocks not suited for planting saves tremendous time, money, and energy across the entire industry. New rootstocks for stone fruit of greater genetic diversity are being tested and hold greater potential to reduce tree size, to be more efficient, and increase insect and disease resistance than rootstocks currently in use. Grower support and interest in increasing tree longevity, and imparting peach borer resistance is apparent by their interest, comments, and association support.

    Publications

    • New Jersey 2000 Annual Report of the NC-140 Cooperate Regional Project, Results of Pome- and Stone-Fruit Rootstock Trials.


    Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99

    Outputs
    OBJECTIVES: 1. To evaluate the performance of pome-and-stone-fruit rootstocks in various environments and under different management systems. 2. To assess and improve asexual propagation techniques of pome-and stone-fruit rootstocks. 3. To improve the ability to identify and identify pome-and stone-fruit rootstocks through morphological, biochemical, and genetic differences. 4. To develop new and better pome- and stone fruit rootstocks through breeding and genetic engineering, and to acquire new rootstocks from breeding programs in other parts of the world. 5. To determine biotic and abiotic stress tolerances of pome- and stone fruit trees in relation to new and existing rootstocks. Approach: Test orchards of apple and peach have been established in a replicated fashion and managed in commercial type management systems. Trees are evaluated for mortality, disease susceptibility, growth, and productivity and fruit quality parameters. Additional observations of growth and habit are observed and reported. Annually, participants from each participating state or province meet and discuss results observations, methods and future plans. Progress: 1) The 1994 peach planting of 17 peach rootstock selections continues to be harvested and measured. There is not yet a replacement rootstock that shows significant improvement above the industry standard Lovell seedling. New selections from the former Soviet Union that have excellent potential for insect and disease resistance have entered the country and will be evaluated in the upcoming 2001 stonefruit planting. 2) New size controlling apple rootstocks continue to be planted and evaluated. 3) Annual meetings of the committee continue to be productive and informative. The strength of this regional (interstate) project has been a model of organization and cooperation. Without a regional effort, knowledge of rootstocks would be delayed decades.

    Impacts
    Regional testing has clearly eliminated potential rootstocks from commercial production by the identification of critical weakness, saving the industry millions of dollars of wasted effort.

    Publications

    • Cowgill, W. P., and R.D. Belding. New Jersey 1999 Annual Report of Cooperative Regional Projects - NC-140 Regional Rootstock Technical Committee.


    Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98

    Outputs
    NC-140 New Jersey, 1994 Dwarf Apple Rootstock Planting Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown, New Jersey A snowball bloom occurred in the spring of 1998. All data has been collected for 1998. While P22 and M 27 EMLA are not filling their allotted space, M 26 EMLA, V 1, and M9 RN 29 have excessive vigor for the 2.5m x 4.5m spacing of the Vertical Ax system under our conditions. NC-140 New Jersey, 1994 Semi-Dwarf Apple Rootstock Planting Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm, Pittstown, New Jersey All data has been collected for 1998. Leaf and soil samples were collected for analysis. Two trees on CG 30 were lost in separate windstorms over the course of the past year. This brings the survival rate of this rootstock to 50%. One tree on M26 was also lost. All trees snapped as a clean break at the graft union. Cornell/Geneva Apple Rootstock Evaluation Plantings 1997 and 1998; Snyder Farm, Pittstown, New Jersey A trial comparing CG 30 with M 26 five cultivars; was established in 1997. The cultivars include Myra Red Fuji, Jonagold, Gala, Breaburn, and Gingergold. All data has been collected for 1998. Breaburn on CG 30 has the greatest TCSA to date, while Breaburn on M 26 has the least. Apricot Rootstock Evaluation Plantings 1994; Snyder Farm Planting. All data has been collected for 1998. NJPC 5 is the best performing stock in this trial as to yield efficiency and survival. It does have a tendency to overcrop itself and produce small fruit. The trees on Lovell had the highest cumulative yield this year, as well as the largest fruit. Dwarfing Cherry Rootstock / Cultivar Evaluation Planting 1994; Rutgers Snyder Farm, Pittstown, New Jersey A single planting was established in 1995 consisting of 6 Sweet Cherry Cultivars on 5 different Giesla Series dwarfing rootstocks. Bacterial Canker has become the primary concern for the block. An outbreak of Canker has forced us to alter our management practices. A series of Bordeaux sprays have been initiated in the fall and pre-bud dormant periods, and the idea of post-harvest summer pruning will replace dormant pruning. Royalton and Somerset appear to be highly susceptible to Bacterial Canker, while Hartland is showing a resistance towards it. All data has been collected for 1998. Data indicates a wide variation of Trunk Cross-Sectional Area that has partially been influenced by Bacterial Canker. 1994 NC-140 Peach Rootstock Trials Rutgers Snyder Farm: Fruit maturity was uneven, and the trees needed to be harvested five times in order for optimum quality to be attained. All data was collected for 1998. Guardian has the greatest TCSA to date. Red Leaf had the largest fruit size in 1998. Win Cowgill, Rutgers University, and Jon Clements Michigan State University, maintain a home page for the NC-140 project on the world wide web at which is hosted by the Virtual Orchard at

    Impacts
    (N/A)

    Publications

    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr., Compton, J. 1998.Apple Rootstocks: is CG 30 Your Semi-Dwarf Alternative? Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.28 P.4
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Bacterial Canker of Sweet Cherry. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.25 P.1-2
    • Compton, J., Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. North Jersey Apple Maturity Update. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.25 P.3
    • Clements, J., Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Painless and Efficient Maturity Testing. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.24, P. 1-2
    • Compton, J., Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. North Jersey Tree Fruit Update. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.24 P.3
    • Compton, J., Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. North Jersey Tree Fruit Update. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.21 P.1-2
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Retain: Harvest Management Tool for Apples and Pears. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.14 P.5
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr., Clements, J. 1998. Apple Crop Projections. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.11 P.2
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Foliar Nutrient Sprays on Apple. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.3 P.2
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Thoughts on Apple Thinning. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.2 P.1-2
    • Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Apple Bloom Thinning Trials in NJ. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.3 No.2 P.5-6
    • Compton, J., Cowgill, W.P., Jr. 1998. Apple Rootstock Research Forum Convenes at IDFTA. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Plant & Pest Advisory Newsletter, Fruit Edition Vol.2 No.30 P.6


    Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97

    Outputs
    Two rootstocks from the NJAES peach rootstock breeding program (62325, and Okinawa X Cardinal) were identified which delayed bloom such that in a year with frosts/freezes during bloom, yield was three times greater on these two rootstocks compared to 16 other tested rootstocks. Whether or not these rootstocks induced greater blossom hardiness has not been determined. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) has been used for rapid estimation of physiological activity over a range of temperatures by measuring heat production of living tissues. We are trying to determine if scion flower bud metabolic activity from late fall through bloom is correlated with time of bloom and loss of hardiness in peach. In addition, we are also trying to determine if differential scanning calorimetry can be used to rapidly assess the bloom delaying potential of rootstock selections in the NJAES peach rootstock breeding program.

    Impacts
    (N/A)

    Publications

    • No publications reported this period


    Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96

    Outputs
    Two rootstocks from the NJAES peach rootstock breeding program (62325, and Okinawa X Cardinal) were identified which delayed bloom such that in a year with frosts/freezes during bloom, yield was three times greater on these two rootstocks compared to 16 other tested rootstocks. Whether or not these rootstocks induced greater blossom hardiness has not been determined. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) has been used for rapid estimation of physiological activity over a range of temperatures by measuring heat production of living tissues. We are trying to determine if scion flower bud metabolic activity from late fall through bloom is correlated with time of bloom and loss of hardiness in peach. In addition, we are also trying to determine if differential scanning calorimetry can be used to rapidly assess the bloom delaying potential of rootstock selections in the NJAES peach rootstock breeding program.

    Impacts
    (N/A)

    Publications


      Progress 01/01/95 to 12/30/95

      Outputs
      1994 Peach Rootstock Planting Evaluation of general performance under NJ conditions continues. This planting continues to provide useful information regarding the adaptability of the rootstocks being tested to NJ orchard conditions.

      Impacts
      (N/A)

      Publications


        Progress 01/01/94 to 12/30/94

        Outputs
        A new peach (Prunus persica (L) Batsch) rootstock planting was established in April 1994. The planting is Redhaven budded to 15 rootstocks in a randomized complete block design. Trunk circumference was measured at planting and again in the fall to estimate tree vigor. Trees on Stark's Redleaf were more vigorous than those on Tennessee Natural 281-1 or Ishtara. Significant mortality occurred with trees on Ta Tao 5 interstem trees, and Bailey. No differences due to rootstock on suckering was detected.

        Impacts
        (N/A)

        Publications


          Progress 01/01/93 to 12/30/93

          Outputs
          1993 was the termination year for the 1984 Apple rootstock block. Final data hasbeen submitted to the project leader. Two new plantings will be established in 1994, an apple planting and a peach planting.

          Impacts
          (N/A)

          Publications


            Progress 01/01/92 to 12/30/92

            Outputs
            Three peach (Prunus persica(L) Batsch) rootstock plantings were monitored for date and rate of bloom during the Springs of 1989 and 1990 to determine if the time of scion bloom on different rootstocks is determined by the date of initiation of bud growth in the spring or by the duration of a particular bud stage. Included were a 1984 planting of 'Redhaven' on eight rootstocks, a 1984 planting of 'Rio-Oso-Gem' and 'Loring', each on eleven rootstocks, and a 1986 planting of 'Encore' on 18 rootstocks. The effect of rootstock on bud phenology was consistent within scion cultivar over two extremely different spring temperature profiles. In 'Redhaven and 'Rio-Oso-Gem', rootstocks affected the dates but not the rates of bud development. Rootstocks affected both the dates and rates of "Loring" and "Encore" bud development. No consistent effect of rootstock on yield could be associated with delayed bud development in "Rio-Oso-Gem", "Redhaven" or "Loring"; however, delayed bud development of "Encore" on "Okinawa x Cardinal" and 62325 resulted in enhanced yield following spring frosts.

            Impacts
            (N/A)

            Publications


              Progress 01/01/91 to 12/30/91

              Outputs
              1984 Apple Rootstock Planting - Evaluation of general performance under NJ conditions continues. This planting continues to provide useful information regarding the adaptability of the rootstocks being tested to NJ orchard conditions. 1984 Peach Rootstock Planting - This planting was terminated at the end of the 1990-1991 winter season.

              Impacts
              (N/A)

              Publications


                Progress 01/01/90 to 12/30/90

                Outputs
                1984 Apple Rootstock Planting. Evaluation of general performance under NJ conditions. This planting continues to provide useful information regarding the adaptability of the rootstocks being tested to NJ orchard conditions. 1984 Peach Rootstock Planting. Supercooling of peach pistils was monitored usingexotherm analysis during two dormant seasons (1988-89 and 1989-90). In both years, no consistent, significant main effect of rootstock on the mean low temperature exotherrms for'Redhaven' flower buds was detected. Flower development during bloom was monitored in 1989-1990 as in 1988-1989 to determine the bloom delaying potential of a number of rootstock selections in several different peach plantings at the station. A few selections have been identified as having the potential to delay bloom by several days. Under the fluctuating late-winter temperature conditions of New Jersey, rootstock selection may have only a limited potential for increasing low temperature stress resistance in peach flower buds. However, rootstock selection has potential for delaying bloom, thereby reducing crop loss due to frosts or freezes in the spring.

                Impacts
                (N/A)

                Publications


                  Progress 01/01/89 to 12/30/89

                  Outputs
                  1984 Apple Rootstock Planting: Many king flowers were lost to freezes during bloom (-1.7C on 20 April,-5.0 on 23 April, and -4.4 on 24 April).Temperatures were measured 1.0m from the ground in the tree canopy.'P22', 'Bud 9', 'CG-10', 'MAC 39', and 'EMLA 26' had the highest cumulative yield efficiencies after 5 years, over 1 kg/cm2 trunk cross sectional area.The rootstocks with cumulative yield efficiencies less than 0.5 kg included 'M4', 'MAC 1', CG-24', and domestic seedlings.Peach Rootstock Plantings: A bloom delaying rootstock would be beneficial, thus three peach rootstock plantings at Cream Ridge were monitored closely to detect any rootstock influence on bloom.Full bloom (50% open flowers) occur red in mid April.Flower buds of 'Redhaven' on 'Damas', 'Bailey' and 'GF 655-2' reached full bloom (14 April) earlier than on 'Halford'.By 19 April, all flower buds were open and no rootstock influence could be detected.No rootstock effect on bloom was detected for 'Rio-Oso Gem' on 6 Harrow selections, 2 Chinese rootstocks ('Tzim Pee Tao', 'Sinung Chumi'), 'Lovell', 'Citation', or self-rooted trees.Full bloom in 'Loring' (on the same rootstocks as 'Rio' plus 'Chui Lum Tao' and 'Bailey') was delayed by as mcuh as 8 days to 'Tzim Pee Tao' and 'Citation' compared to 'Lovell'.In a block of 'Encore' on 18 different rootstocks (many selections from the NJAES) 3 stocks (62325, 'Okinawa x Cardinal' and 'Nemaguard') delayed bloom by 5 days compared to 'Lovell'.

                  Impacts
                  (N/A)

                  Publications


                    Progress 01/01/88 to 12/30/88

                    Outputs
                    1984 APPLE ROOTSTOCK PLANTING. Mean yield per tree was very low due to the prolonged heat and drought. 'Bud 9' was most productive (6.2 kg marketable fruit/tree) while 'CG 24' was least productive (0.6 kg/tree). Four trees on "Bud 491' and 3 trees on 'P 22' have been lost. 1984 REDHAVEN PEACH ROOTSTOCK PLANTING. After a field low temperature stress of -26 C in Jan. scion flower bud hardiness was greater on 'Siberian C' and 'Bailey' compared to 'GF 677'. At bloom, 'Lovell' and 'Siberian C' carried more live scion pistils compared to 'Damas GF 1869'. 'Siberian C' and 'Lovell' required significantly greater scion fruit thinning compared to all other stocks and self-rooted trees. 'GF 677' produced a larger marketable scion crop compared to 'GF 655.2' or 'Damas GF 1969'. In addition, 'Bailey', 'Lovell' and self-rooted trees produced a significantly larger scion crop compared to 'Damas GF 1869'. No significant rootstock effect on production efficiency was detected. 1984 RIO OSO GEM AND LORING PEACH ROOTSTOCK PLANTING. Horticultural productivity characteristics of 'Rio Oso Gem' and 'Loring' budded to nine different rootstocks or on their own roots are currently being evaluated according to NC140 guidelines. 1986 ENCORE PEACH ROOTSTOCK PLANTING. Evaluation of 'Encore' budded to 18 different rootstocks is currently underway. The 1989 season should be the first full crop for this planting.

                    Impacts
                    (N/A)

                    Publications


                      Progress 01/01/87 to 12/30/87

                      Outputs
                      1984 Apple Planting. Precocity of 'Starkspur Supreme Delicious' as measured by flower cluster counts was greatest for 'Bud 9', and decreasing in order, for 'P 22', 'EMLA 26', 'Bud 491', 'CG-10', 'EMLA 7', 'Mac 39', 'M.4', domestic seedling, 'MAC 1', and CG-24'. Highest average yield per tree was on 'Bud 9' and lowest for 'CG-24' with all other rootstocks in between. Domestic seedlings suckered the most followed by 'CG-24. All others had only limited suckering. Average fruit size was greatest on 'CG-10' and lowest on 'CG-24'. 1984 Peach Rootstock Planting. 'GF 655.2' and 'Damas GF 1869' had accelerated bloom while 'Siberian C' and 'Lovell' had delayed bloom. Self-rooted and 'GF 655.2' required the least amount of hand thinning. 'Citation' had very large fruit with many split pits. 'Damas GF 1869' suckered extensively, 'GF 655.2' suckered moderately and 'GF 677' suckered slightly. Harvest date was significantly affected by rootstock. 'Citation', 'Siberian C' and self-rooted trees reached peak harvest a week earlier than 'Bailey', 'Halford', 'GF 677', 'GF 655.2', and 'Damas GF 1869; while 'Lovell' reached peak harvest a week later. Total harvest did not differ among rootstocks. 'Siberian C', self-rooted and 'Lovell' had the hardiest flower buds while 'GF 655.2', and 'GF 677' had the least hardy flower buds. Differences in hardiness were carried through to bloom.

                      Impacts
                      (N/A)

                      Publications


                        Progress 01/01/86 to 12/30/86

                        Outputs
                        Apple Rootstock Project - All trees are growing well and appear to have recovered from last years deer damage. Bud 9 and Golden Delicious on EMLA 26 flowered extensively. Domestic seedlings suckered badly. Peach Rootstock Project - Phytopthora root rot was very bad in New Jersey this year. Blossom density was high on 'Lovell' and 'Siberian C,' and yield was greatest for self-rooted (16 kg/tree), 'Lovell' (14 kg/tree) and 'Citation' (9 kg/tree). Average fruit size ranged from 140 to 180 g per fruit for all rootstocks except GF 677 which had an average fruit size of 100 g. High winds (80 mph) associated with hurricane Gloria in the fall of 1985 caused extensive leaning of many rootstocks. The most severe leaning (an indication of poor anchorage) occurred in self rooted trees, 'Halford,' 'Siberian C' and 'Damas 1869.' Moderate leaning occurred with 'Lovell,' 'GF 677' and 'Bailey.' 'GF 665-2' and 'Citation' (small trees) leaned very little. Results indicate that self rooted trees have potential for early and heavy fruiting at a relatively low cost. For budded trees, 'Lovell' appears to be superior to 'Halford' under New Jersey conditions. Also 'Lovell' has better anchorage compared to 'Halford.

                        Impacts
                        (N/A)

                        Publications


                          Progress 01/01/85 to 12/30/85

                          Outputs
                          This is only the second growing season for this planting. Only vegetative growth measurements were made this season. The scion variety used in the apple rootstock planting is Starkspur Supreme. The ranking of the rootstocks with regard to vigor (from the largest to smallest trees) is P 1, CG-24, EMLA 7, Domestic Seedling, MAC 1, M.4, EMLA 26, BUD 9, MAC 39, P 22, CG-10, and BUD 941. A uniform peach rootstock trial with 9 rootstock treatments continues to be evaluated with Redhaven as the scion variety. Redhaven on Citation continues to show apparent incompatibility, tree decline, and induces leaf abscission 2-3 weeks ahead of the other rootstocks in this planting. Bloom density, bloom date and fruit set were also influenced by rootstock with greatest precocity induced by Citation.

                          Impacts
                          (N/A)

                          Publications


                            Progress 01/01/84 to 12/30/84

                            Outputs
                            In 1982 a planting was established to evaluate 4 peach cultivars on 3 rootstocks. Tree survival and growth parameters have been recorded yearly. 'Cresthaven', 'Redhaven', 'Loring' and 'Jefferson' own rooted trees survived well, but have slightly smaller trunks than trees on Lovell or Halford. Bloom date, bloom density, fruit set and yield will be recorded for the next 5 years. The NC-140 uniform apple and peach rootstock plantings were established in 1984. Peach on GF677 survived poorly. Trees on citation are smaller other trees and defoliated early.

                            Impacts
                            (N/A)

                            Publications


                              Progress 01/01/83 to 12/30/83

                              Outputs
                              In 1982 our planting was established to evaluate 4 peach cultivars on 3 rootstocks. Tree survival and growth parameters have been recorded. 'Cresthaven,' 'Redhaven,' 'Jefferson,' and 'Loring' own rooted trees survived well, but are slightly smaller than trees on Lovell or Halford rootstocks. Bloom date, bloom density, fruit set and yield will be recorded for the next 6 years. Land is being prepared for the 1984 NC-140 uniform apple and peach plantings. Trees have been propagated for an additional peach rootstock planting, where 'Loring' and 'Rio-Oso-Gem' have been budded to 12 rootstocks and own rooted trees will be included.

                              Impacts
                              (N/A)

                              Publications