Walnut Research in France

Walnut research in France is carried out by scientists employed by the Centre Technique Interprofessionel des Fruits et Legumes (CTIFL) and the Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA). (The Association Foret-Cellulose (AFOCEL) which has been active in research on walnut propagation is terminating their walnut project this year.) CTIFL focuses on applied research and technology transfer. Much of the work at the CTIFL research stations is aimed at adapting American technology developed for laterally fruitful varieties to French growing conditions with the expectation that improved laterally fruitful varieties will be available in the near future. Because of the variation in soil types in France, rootstock studies at CTIFL stations are yielding important information on rootstock adaptation to specific soil types. INRA is responsible for basic research, plant improvement and propagation. INRA scientists will have a major impact on walnut research in these areas. E. Germain, INRA, maintains a germplasm repository for all of Europe. His main focus has been on collecting established varieties and improved selections from France, U.S., and eastern Europe. A summary of evaluations is included in this report. Germains collection may be complementary to that of the National Clonal Germplasm Repository Davis which will concentrate on native collections. Germain is willing to exchange materials in his germplasm col]ection and arrangements have been made to receive selected seed and scionwood. Research on cold-hardiness and bud dormancy (J.C. Mauget, INRA) may provide information needed to extend the range of English Walnuts in the U.S. Work of C. Jay-Allemand and D. Cornu on markers for juvenili ty may have an impact on propagation of walnuts and many of the perennial crops which are difficult to initiate in culture.