WALNUT INDUSTRY IN THE WORLD: PROSPECTS FOR RESEARCH AND PRODUCTION

Significant increases in walnut production can be expected in many countries where local selections and new cultivars are being evaluated which will require expanded market development. Those engaged in production research must become more closely aligned with the processing and marketing industry to ensure that the quality aspects of walnuts are considered in relation to commercial demand and processing technology. New vigorous rootstocks with tolerance to CLRV and/or resistant cultivars provide potential solutions to the threat of blackline disease.

Economically sustainable walnut production in the future will depend on the development of more efficient and more environmentally-acceptable orchard management practices. Development of copper-resistant strains of walnut blight or bacteriosis (Xanthomonas campestris pv. juglandis) necessitates accelerated research on epidemiology and control of this most destructive disease. Alternative sustainable pest management practices will be required for the control of Codling moth (Cydia/Carpocapsa/Laspeyresia pomonella), the key walnut pest.

Increasing costs and more limited water availability and quality will continue to encourage the use of more efficient irrigation systems. However, increased irrigation will increase the likelihood of root and crown rot diseases (e.g. Phytophthora and Armillaria).

Emerging technological innovations will provide greater opportunity for more rapid communication and the benefits of increased exchange of ideas as we address the walnut problems of the future.