The Rolshausen Lab

Our lab studies tree crop production systems but primarily centered on viticulture and citriculture. We have also engaged in broader research activities on other tree crops including date, almond, walnut, avocado, mango and coffee. Our research is centered around vascular diseases that affect productivity and longevity of vineyards (Pierce's Disease, Crown Gall, and Grapevine Trunk Diseases) and citrus orchards (Huanglongbing). We are interested in understanding the dynamics between the plant host, the pathogen(s) and the associated microbiome and how cultural practices and abiotic stresses affects these interactions and disease outcomes. Our mission is to extend the scientific information to stakeholders and provide practical cost-efficient management strategies to invasive and endemic diseases. We are also engaged in developing innovative approaches and cutting-edge technologies to control diseases including nanotechnology, precision agriculture and indoor farming systems.  Our group has partnered with several institutions in the California and United States but also internationally including France, Mexico, Chile and Vietnam.