THE last thing one would expect in an orchard is a scientist in a white coat. However, this is exactly where most of Citrus Research International’s (CRI’s) research subject matter originates and where CRI’s world-class scientists spend a lot of their time.CRI is the mainstay of scientific advancement in SA’s citrus industry. Without its expertise the industry — especially its export component, which is the most lucrative — would be brought to its knees. Yet the pivotal role of CRI’s scientific innovation and world-class research in the citrus industry is a story that remains largely untold.Take citrus black spot, for example. South African citrus destined for the export market is subject to various phytosanitary regulations. Therefore, disease management is paramount — including formulating and evaluating risk management strategies, and structuring spray programmes, host resistance, and product comparison or evaluation.CRI has dedicated resources, both scientific expertise and fund...

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