FRUIT NEWS FOR MAY

From the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station at Geneva come two new strawberries. These were bred by Courtney Weber. 'Clancy' fruits ripen in late June. They are less susceptible to fungal diseases since the berries are held well off the ground.

'L'Amour' fruits are ready to pick in early June somewhat earlier than those of 'Clancy.' They are bright red.

Plants for these two new varieties should be available from Indiana Berry & Plant Co., Nourse Farms, and StrawberryTyme Farms.

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of USDA developed a new peach for the Southern states. 'Gulfprince' bears sweet, juicy fruits that can ripen on the tree for three to four days longer. They are slow to soften. This means they will be sweeter, juicier, and more aromatic. They don't bruise as easily as most varieties, so they should keep better. The nicely plump, yellow-fleshed fruits are 2 ½ inches in diameter. They are ready to harvest in June. 'Gulfprince' is suitable for the Gulf and Atlantic states.

If you're looking for an indoor fruit plant during the winter months, consider 'Very Berry' wintergreen. This new variety should be available at garden centers. This plant is literally covered with ¼ to ½ inch-wide berries during the late fall. Hardy to USDA zones 4 through 9, 'Very Berry' is only about eight inches high and about as wide.

NEW RESEARCH RESULTS

Oregon State University scientists have found a way to protect apple trees, and other plants from crown gall disease. This disease is caused by soil-dwelling bacteria. It causes tumors to form on plant roots. This discovery should ultimately result in especially bred plants that can destroy the bacteria before tumor formation begins. The researchers hope to complete field trials and make the commercial use of these results. The research involved the use of genetic engineering.

NEW FLAVOR OF ICE CREAM

If you happen to be on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, do visit the Agricultural Hall and sample the new Babcock ice cream called Ag Hallberries on Henry Malt. Anyone that likes cranberries will just love this tasty treat. The cranberry-based ice cream is pink with a ribbon of fudge and malted milk balls.

NEW ORGANIC PESTICIDES

Monterey has introduced a new garden insect spray that is made from naturally occurring bacteria. This active ingredient was originally discovered on the island of Puerto Rico in an abandoned rum distillery. The Monterey Garden Insect Spray can control borers on fruit trees, and can be used up to 7-14 days before harvest. It can be used for all kinds of worms, caterpillars, leafrollers, and leafminers.

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