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Citrus Center

Budwood Certification Program


Budwood Certification Program

At the forefront of safeguarding the citrus industry in Texas, the Citrus Center plays a pivotal role in managing the Citrus Budwood Certification program. Established by the Texas Legislature in 1997 under House Bill 2807 and overseen by the Texas Department of Agriculture, this program is instrumental in maintaining a foundation collection of citrus varieties free from known graft- and insect-transmitted pathogens.

Utilizing advanced techniques such as shoot-tip grafting and thermotherapy, the Citrus Budwood Certification program ensures the integrity and health of citrus specimens, mitigating the risk of disease transmission and promoting the production of disease-free trees. By producing increase trees and supplying budwood to nurseries, the program supports the growth and sustainability of the citrus industry in Texas, underpinning its long-term success and resilience.

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Mark VanNess
Office: (956) 447-3399
Fax: (956) 969-0649