Fruit Tree Research

Fruit trees are vital to agricultural economies and food security around the world, yet they face growing pressure from fungal pathogens that threaten their health and productivity. Our lab’s fruit tree research addresses these threats both locally and abroad.

In Colorado, our work centers on Cytospora canker, a perennial and economically damaging disease caused by Cytospora plurivora that threatens the peach orchards of the Western Slope. Through field trials, population genetics, and applied management studies, we investigate the disease’s epidemiology and evaluate strategies — including canopy sprays and irrigation practices — to help growers protect their orchards and sustain Colorado’s fruit tree industry.

Abroad, our lab also studies myrtle rust, caused by the invasive fungal pathogen Austropuccinia psidii, which threatens myrtle-family trees — including many fruit-bearing species — across affected regions worldwide. Using population genetics, we work to better understand the pathogen’s spread and evolution, contributing to global efforts to manage this emerging threat.

Together, this research reflects our lab’s commitment to protecting fruit tree health at both a regional and global scale.