Pear decline (Candidatus Phytoplasma pyri) is one of the most economically important diseases in pear cultivation worldwide.

 

Rootstocks that reduce the phytoplasmas overwintering in the roots are suitable for combating it. Even after infection, the pear varieties grafted onto Refia® 'ViruTherm(S)' remain vital and healthy. In a regional trial at the Kompetenzzentrum Obstbau Bodensee (KOB= Competence Centre Lake Constance), Bavendorf/Germany, two new pear rootstocks with the aforementioned properties were selected from fi fteen rootstocks tested:

 

Refia®ViruTherm-1(S) and Refia® ViruTherm-2(S)

The plants are micropropagated by an experienced partner. In addition to their phytoplasma resistance, both also have excellent orcharding properties.

 

Due to their vigor, they are particularly suitable for largevolume tree forms in combination with strong-growing varieties (extensive orchards). For the weaker-growing table pears, planting on trellis is also highly interesting for commercial cultivation. We recommend planting trees with two axes, which are fi xed horizontally to the lower wire. In subsequent years, the shoots that develop from this are guided vertically upwards, fi xed to wires and trained like spindles or Fruitwalls. The trees should be planted 3 to 3.5 m apart.

​

(S) = plant variety protection