In 2022 six different apple cultivars were planted on two different rootstcoks at the UMass Cold Spring Research and Education Orchard. These include the root stocks G41, a dwarfing root stock, and G969, a semi dwarfing rootstock and the varities Coloradona, Franklin Cider Apple, Haralson, Nehou and Sangre de Toro.
Management protocols will be developed on these six apple cultivars grown specifically for the cider industry. These protocols will be built on advanced IPM practices and reduced risk/OP alternative pesticide use (EPA Definition: These are pesticides which: (1) reduce pesticide risks to human health; (2) reduce pesticide risks to non-target organisms; (3) reduce the potential for contamination of valued, environmental resources, or (4) broaden adoption of IPM or makes it more effective.)
In addition to advanced IPM research, these cider apple blocks will be used for Extension and to train the next generation of IPM apple scouts.
Evaluations will include tree growth (trunk circumference), bud stage timing, growth habit, yield and bearing habit, juice qualities, fermentation trails, maturity assessments, insect pest and disease incidence and severity, and weed management.
