Albert Culbreath, University of Georgia research plant pathologist, focuses his research projects on tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and leaf spot. According to Culbreath, TSWV has flared up quite severe this year in some areas and has been a challenge for growers. The virus is spread by thrips so he is studying various insecticides that may help. There are also new peanut varieties developed by the University of Georgia and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that has improved resistance to TSWV. He has noticed that the planting date that minimizes TSWV seems to maximize leaf spot. Culbreath is also working with geneticist and breeders to develop molecular markers to develop selection of lines with TSWV and leaf spot resistance.
