Pecan Diseases
Kory Herrington (M.S. student) is shown with both diseased and healthy pecan fruit.
Pecan scab (Fusicladium effusum) is a devastating disease that can cause huge losses in Georgia, especially on Desirable, the most popular cultivar, which is very susceptible.
The primary means of controlling pecan is from fungicide sprays, so that is a main focus of Dr. Brenneman’s research. He is continually looking for new products, or better ways to use currently labeled materials.
Currently, one of the biggest challenges is an increase in reduced sensitivity in the scab pathogen to several fungicide classes. Gaining a better understanding of this phenomenon is the focal point of a joint project with Dr. Katherine Stevenson.
Freeze treatment to expose latent infections of anthracnose on pecans (Tom Ingram, M.S.).
Another component of Dr. Brenneman’s pecan disease research involves working with other pecan diseases such as anthracnose, caused by Glomerella spp., to better understand their development in the field and how to manage them.
A recent discovery is a new disease affecting pecan leaves that is being seen more frequently. Basic studies are being undertaken to prove pathogenicity and determine the causal organism.