Hazelnut Yield Protection Using Fungicides Against Eastern Filbert Blight

Abstract

Fungicide effectiveness on yield loss owing to eastern filbert blight (EFB) was studied on mature, bearing hazelnut trees in a replicated trial. This case study found that fungicide use in hazelnuts not only limited EFB development but also protected future yield loss and gross financial returns. The results were similar to commercial industry experience even though the research occurred on small blocks of mature trees. There was no difference in disease or yield between the two fungicide programs evaluated. Growers who carry the annual cost of fungicides after discovery of EFB in their orchards will benefit monetarily several years later through sustained yields.