The Citrus Research and Development Foundation President, Morgan McKenna Porter, addresses the use of individual protective covers (IPCs) for newly planted citrus trees as a defense against huanglongbing (HLB). "IPCs are not flawless, but they certainly can be optimized," stated Porter. These mesh bags shield young trees from the Asian citrus psyllid, known to spread HLB.
Porter discussed the process: "I can plant a young tree and put an IPC over that tree. When the tree gets too big for that bag and I remove it, the tree has already gone through its first couple of years without being infected with HLB. It's going to grow more vigorously under that bag. I've given it a head start in life and a fighting chance against HLB."
When the IPC is removed, the tree stands ready for its first systemic application, albeit with potential future HLB infection. "It'll probably get infected with HLB, but I'm managing that inoculum better than I've been able to manage it in years past," Porter explained.
The ultimate remedy lies in cultivating the "tree of the future," which needs not be entirely resistant but should tolerate HLB, giving longevity to citrus production. Porter reflects on the journey: "It's not an easily paved road. It feels like most of our roads these days: dirt roads in a dry season. That road will get you there. You've just got to go slow, one yard at a time."
Source: Citrus Industry