In the last decade, huanglongbing (HLB) has reduced production of Florida grapefruit by 75%, mandarin by 78% and sweet orange by 52%. This decrease is significant for the Indian River District, which produces approximately 80% of the total grapefruit crop grown in Florida (National Agricultural Statistics Service, 2021). Several strategies have been considered to keep citrus groves productive in HLB times. Rootstock field trials are cost-effective since vigorous, healthy rootstocks enhance disease tolerance of the scion and boost yields that increase growers’ profits.
