Real Christmas Tree Board launches winter webinar series
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EmailRegistration is now open for webinars on January 14 and 28, focusing on precocious cone formation and manually removing cones, and Phytophthora root rot.
Registration for the Real Christmas Tree Board winter webinar series (Photo 1) is now open. The two-part webinar series will take place Jan. 14 and 28 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The first webinar will focus on precocious cone formation (Photo 2) and alternatives to manually removing cones. The second webinar will cover Phytophthora root rot (Photo 3). There is no cost for the webinars, but registration is required.
Overview of presentations
January 14: Bert Cregg, PhD, Michigan State University
Fraser fir precocious cone formation causes many issues for Christmas tree farmers. Cones are a photosynthetic sink, and when large numbers are present, can reduce vegetative growth. In addition, cones are not persistent, and after breaking down leave unappealing stalks on the tree. Hand removal of cones is expensive due to the high amount of manual labor involved. In addition, worker safety issues may arise due to the use of ladders to remove cones on tall trees.
Plant growth regulators have been tested to prevent the formation of reproductive buds and thereby prevent the formation of cones. Other experiments tested the use of caustic materials applied to cones to chemically eliminate them. Experimental results will be discussed, showing how these products may be able to reduce the use of labor to physically remove cones.
January 28: Gary Chastagner, PhD, Washington State University
Phytophthora root rot can be a devastating disease for Christmas tree production, resulting in high mortality rates of trees during any stage of production. This webinar will outline the mechanisms of Phytophthora root rot spreading, damage and signs of Phytophthora root rot infected trees, and what key management steps growers can take to manage Phytophthora root rot in their Christmas tree fields.
Restricted use pesticide credits have been requested. For specific questions or problems with the registration process, contact Bill Lindberg at lindbe35@msu.edu.
