Disease resistance in apple, pear and peach germplasm originating from the Balkan peninsula

Abstract

The Balkan peninsula is an extremely rich source of genetic variation in apple, pear and peach which may contribute greatly to the improvement of economically important traits. Because of the existing variability in the region, differing ecological conditions and human activities, the Balkan peninsula can be regarded as one of the secondary centers of genetic diversity of apple, pear and peach. The main objective of the research was to collect, conserve and evaluate for disease resistance in apple (Malus x domestica), pear (Pyrus communis L.) and peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) germplasm at Balkan peninsula and make it available to fruit breeding programmes. Special attention was paid to the stability of their multiple resistance and tolerance to main fungal diseases. Out of over 1500 apple trees evaluated in situ, a total of 127 native apple cultivars were collected. Field evaluations and glasshouse tests revealed a few mildew, scab and aphid resistant, late maturing accessions. The most promising are Krstovaca, Sumatovka, Pasinka i Alamanka. Disease and pest evaluations in pear are done on over 2500 trees in situ. Multiple resistance to psylla (Psylla piricola Foerter) and scab (Venturia pirina Adelh.) was not rare as represented in Brasanka, Carigradsko avce, Jeribasma and Takusa. Evaluations of peach leaf curl and mildew were done in unsprayed conditions on 457 vineyard peach genotypes. Tolerant accessions were determined regarding both parasites.