Organic Tree Fruit Production in British Columbia- Discovery to Application

Neilsen, G., Cossentine, J., Forge, T., Hampson C., Hogue, E., Judd, G., Neilsen, D., Sholberg, P., and Thistlewd H.
Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, Summerland, BC, Canada

Certified organic production in British Columbia has a long history but has recently expanded. In 2003, 614 ha were in organic production in BC, including 5% of the area under apple production. We discuss regional research over the past 20 years that is compatible with organic management practices excluding chemical inputs of pesticides and fertilizers and using naturally derived products as defined by organic certification programs.

Conventional apple breeding efforts have focused on genetic resistance to apple scab, powdery mildew and fire blight. Soil management methods involving increased use of organic amendments and mulches offer potential for improving soil quality by increasing biological activity and the retention capacity of orchard soil for nutrients and water. Tree row mulching and effective use of cover crops can provide weed control benefits. A range of organic-compatible insect control strategies were provided including a sterile insect release program, pheromone-based mating disruption and conservation or release of natural biological control agents of the major insect and mite pests. Similarly, a range of natural plant products are under test to control pre- and post-harvest diseases.

Nevertheless, major research challenges remain. These include improved understanding of N-availability from organic-sources, improved knowledge of in-row mulch delivery and management of cover crops, organically-acceptable chemical control of weed escapes, the assessment of such practices on pest management, and their integration in practice.

For apple breeding, investment is required to find molecular markers for QTL associated with disease resistance, and to use such markers to assess new cultivars. More information is required on compost teas and similar products being proposed for disease control.

 

Presentation given at the Symposium (PDF)