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Rootstock selection. More peach-almond hybrid rootstocks are being planted in new orchards. These rootstocks are more vigorous and tolerant of toxic salts, but are susceptible to Phytophthora. In general, plum parentage rootstocks (e.g. Marianna-2624) are the most tolerant.
Peach rootstocks, which include Nemguard and Lovell, are moderately tolerant, while other complex hybrids (Viking and Atlas) have demonstrated some tolerance in greenhouse tests. Peach-almond hybrids (e.g. Hansen 536) are the most susceptible. Newer rootstocks remain untested (e.g. Krymsk-86, Empyrean-1, etc).
In some cases, varieties are being planted on different rootstocks (e.g. ‘Nonpareil’ on Nemaguard, “Wood Colony” on Hansen 536) in order to increase vigor for the weaker growing variety. This has created issues in orchard establishment due to mismanaged irrigation during orchard establishment. Too wet soils will cause increased losses on more susceptible rootstocks.
