2026/07/29 by Michael Rocinante Evans, Shanthanu Krishna Kumar
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Engineering · #Berry genetics and cultivation research #Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies #Tree Root and Stability Studies
paper · doi:10.21273/horttech05926-26
openalex publication_date 2026/07/29 · openalex created_date 2026/07/30 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/30
A survey of 190 tree fruit growers was conducted to assess current challenges in Pennsylvania, USA’s, tree fruit industry, and to identify grower-reported horticultural research and extension needs. Results highlight a continued shift toward fresh-market apple production, with preferred varieties including ‘Honeycrisp’, Evercrisp ® (‘MAIA-1’), and Pink Lady ® (‘Cripps Pink’), and common rootstocks such as ‘B.9’, ‘G.11’, and ‘B.10’. Growers identified key challenges in pest and disease management, physiological disorders, weather-related risks, and rootstock selection. These findings underscore the importance of targeted, accessible research and extension resources to support grower decision making and to enhance orchard sustainability amid changing production and market conditions.