Hort Innovation has announced a new five-year project focused on developing management strategies for walnut blight, a disease that can cause heavy yield losses in walnut orchards. The initiative will be led by Applied Horticultural Research Pty Ltd and will investigate both biological and chemical control options, as well as environmental factors influencing the spread of the disease.
Current chemical controls for walnut blight have become less effective and more costly, prompting the search for alternatives. The project aims to provide growers with practical tools to manage the disease, reduce environmental impact, and improve long-term orchard resilience.
© Hort Innovation
Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation, said, "Walnut blight is a serious threat to productivity and profitability. This project is about equipping growers with smarter, more sustainable tools to manage the disease and future-proof the industry."
He noted that the work may also support the vegetable sector. Walnut blight and black rot in brassica vegetables are caused by related bacterial pathogens. "Our hope is that by finding solutions for walnut blight, we'll unlock tools to help manage black rot in brassica vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, too," Fifield said.
Gordon Rogers, Managing Director of Applied Horticultural Research, said, "This project is a game-changer for affected growers. By combining cutting-edge science with practical field trials, we're aiming to deliver solutions that are not only effective but also sustainable and accessible for growers across Australia." He said the research team includes major walnut producers and disease specialists in Australia and overseas.
The project will involve collaboration between industry and research groups, with the aim of improving disease management practices for both walnut and vegetable growers. Funding is provided through Hort Innovation Frontiers with co-investment from Applied Horticultural Research and contributions from the Australian Government.
Walnuts are not a levy-paying industry under Hort Innovation, but the Frontiers program allows investment in cross-sector projects that have potential benefits for levy-paying horticulture sectors.
© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Shannon O'Mara
Hort Innovation
Tel: +61 (0) 427 142 537
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au
