Researchers have identified a bacteria that causes bushy top syndrome in pistachios, and trials are looking into transfer possibilities of the bacteria in the field.
Trials Looking Into Field Transfer
Pistachio growers were updated last month on how two strands of rhodococcus bacteria work together in a plant and cause the new syndrome labeled bushy top. Research Associate Professor at New Mexico State University, Dr. Jennifer Randall, says the two strands together amplify the odd growing patterns in young trees. Central Valley growers had many questions about the transmission of the bacteria, and although only lab trials can be conducted, Randall believes easy field transmission of the bacteria isn’t likely.