Has a Key Been Found To Help Restore HLB-Positive Citrus Trees?
Ever since HLB (aka, citrus greening) stormed the scene in Florida more than 15 years ago, scientists and growers alike have been searching feverishly for solutions. Living and coping with the deadly plant disease has become the norm. However, the latest research breakthrough involving the application of gibberellic acid has the industry buzzing anew and hungry for more information.
Recent studies from University of Florida scientists have shown many of the symptoms on diseased trees are the result of oxidative stress caused by the HLB bacterium. The latest findings show these stresses can be greatly reduced — and yields increased — by applying products that reduce oxidative stress. One product shown to be effective available to growers right now is gibberellic acid.
Gibberellic acids are defined as naturally occurring plant hormones that are used as plant growth regulators to stimulate both cell division and elongation that affects leaves and stems.
With time being of the essence as another citrus season is set to kick off next month in the Sunshine State, UF/IFAS recently hosted a webinar on the subject (“Use of Gibberellic Acid Treatments to Improve Health and Yield of HLB Diseased Trees”) via Zoom.
During the webinar, info was provided on how gibberellic acid improves tree health, the economic benefit of gibberellic acid sprays, how growers can begin to use it now in their groves, and what should be avoided.
Featured webinar participants included Michael Rogers, Director of the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center, and Tripti Vashisth, UF/IFAS Associate Professor of Horticulture.
An archive of the presentation was made available to view on demand afterward. Watch it now.
Stay tuned for more developments on this line of research.
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