Join industry experts and researchers for an insightful and practical seminar on Apple Replant Disease, taking place on 10 June 2026 (EGVV) and 11 June 2026 (Ceres).

What is ARD? ARD is a worldwide problem affecting certain plant species when they are grown on soils previously occupied by the same or related species. Trees develop replant disease when their roots are damaged by the population of soil organisms that accumulated during the lifetime of the trees previously planted on the site. These harmful soil organisms destroy the feeder roots of the young tree. In South Africa, replant disease is associated with apples. Pears are not affected.

Who should attend? Whether you are a grower, consultant, researcher, or industry stakeholder, this seminar offers valuable knowledge to improve orchard performance, sustainability, and long-term productivity.

Internationally renowned researcher Prof. Mark Mazzola from the USA will share his findings on the causes and management of apple replant disease, drawing on global research and field experience. Complementing this, Prof. Adéle McLeod from Stellenbosch University will present locally relevant insights, alongside grower-based inputs from Carel Cronje at DuToit Agri on the feasibility of new replant disease management options. Tristan Dorfling from Provar will provide his perspective on ARD rootstock tolerance under South African conditions. The seminar programme includes expert talks, interactive discussions, and a dynamic panel session on “Importance of cultural management practices and soil fumigation for managing ARD effectively”. This will provide a unique opportunity to engage directly with specialists, ask questions, and exchange ideas.

About Prof. Mark Mazzola: Prof. Mazzola served for 28 years as a Lead Scientist/Research Plant Pathologist with the USDA-Agricultural Research Service and Professor of Plant Pathology at Washington State University. Since 2006, he has held an extraordinary Professor appointment at Stellenbosch University, Department of Plant Pathology. He currently serves as a Senior Research Consultant with USDA-ARS.  His research program seeks to promote sustainable orchard soil systems that are microbiologically robust and resilient to soil-borne pathogen invasion and disease development. Prof. Mazzola has been recognized internationally for nearly two decades as the leading authority in developing sustainable management strategies for apple replant disease.

More information below:

 Cost: R280 (VAT incl.)

 Venues:

• 10 June at Elgin Fruit Growers Members Hall (EGVV)
• 11 June at the N.G. Kerk Ceresvallei (Ceres)

 Registrations close 3 June 2026

 For more information: lindy@hortgro.co.za

 This event is brought to you by Hortgro and Stellenbosch University

Click to REGISTER NOW!