This columnar form resulted from a naturally occurring genetic change that causes fruiting spurs to be produced instead of branches. We are using this columnar form as a parent in traditional breeding to produce disease resistant columnar progeny. This unique columnar form is also allowing us to learn more about the genetic control of components of plant form. Summary Apple breeding and biotechnology offer many exciting prospects to produce new and improved varieties to benefit the industry. Our releases to date have had a major impact in many of our production areas.
All systems are in place to use traditional breeding and biotechnology to markedly improve apple.
We have transformation and regeneration systems established and genetically engineered apple rootstocks are presently being field tested. All varieties being developed, whether by traditional breeding or biotechnology, go through the same rigorous testing to ensure that we are releasing a safe, high quality, improved variety for our industry. Greater quality, storage and shelf life, and reduced dependence on chemical control of diseases have long been goals in apple breeding, and are becoming a reality. Our objective is to serve the industry and the public by producing new superior apple varieties, and by improving existing varieties. We need to meet current industry needs but also those of future generations.