Apple scab (Venturia inaequalis): Robust cultivars for Central Europe (Biofruitnet Practice Abstract)

Summary

Using robust cultivars reduces the need for external and high cost inputs, reduces the workload on farmers (less applications are needed) and enhances the sustainability of the fruit production.
Practical recommendations
• The choice of scab resistant/tolerant varieties depends on the climatic and site related conditions as well as the farm-specific marketing requirements. Discuss with farmer colleagues and the regional or national con-sulting services for organic fruit growing about the best scab resistant/tolerant varieties in your area.
• Check the FiBL list of varieties for organic cultivation for an overview on available cultivars and some of their production characteristics in the link section.
• The most common scab-tolerant cultivars in central Europe are:
Story/Inored, Topaz, Opal, Ladina, Santana and Antonovka.
• Resistant varieties do not overcome apple scab completely. Treatments with plant protection products are still needed but choosing the right variety significantly reduces dependency on external inputs.