Integrating molecular tools and conventional approaches in the Oregon State University hazelnut breeding program

Abstract

The Oregon State University (OSU) hazelnut breeding program, initiated in 1969, continues to develop new cultivars for the hazelnut industry that combine suitability to the blanched kernel market with resistance to eastern filbert blight (EFB) caused by Anisogramma anomala. Oregon's hazelnut growers support the program through the Oregon Hazelnut Commission. The need for improved disease-resistant cultivars and pollinizers is the program's driving force. About 5000 seedlings have been planted each year during the past 2 decades, and 10 cultivars and 10 pollinizers have been released. Oregon produces 99 percent of the United States crop, but only 3 to 5 percent of the of the world crop. Beginning in 2009, plantings have expanded from 12,000 ha by 1200 ha per year. Most new orchards are being planted to 'Jefferson,' increased by micropropagation.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the fourth international workshop on the genetics of host-parasite interactions in forestry: Disease and insect resistance in forest trees

Citation

Mehlenbacher, Shawn A. 2012. Integrating molecular tools and conventional approaches in the Oregon State University hazelnut breeding program. In: Sniezko, Richard A.; Yanchuk, Alvin D.; Kliejunas, John T.; Palmieri, Katharine M.; Alexander, Janice M.; Frankel, Susan J., tech. coords. Proceedings of the fourth international workshop on the genetics of host-parasite interactions in forestry: Disease and insect resistance in forest trees. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-240. Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. pp. 171-173.