In this series, our Senior Researcher Phytopathology Manus Thoen takes on the myths about HREZ that spread just as fast as the virus itself. Together with experts from our breeding, diagnostics, pathology, and molecular biology, he unpacks misconceptions about HREZ, our High Resistance to ToBRFV.
Across five episodes, we explore the most common HREZ myths
Is resistance really a trade‑off? Manus breaks down what the science shows.
Do warm days have a lasting impact on resistance — or is this a myth?
Is more always better, or is the truth more nuanced?
How vulnerable is HREZ to mutations? We examine the evidence.
Why good hygiene practices in cultivation remain essential.
Bonus myth:
“With a resistant scion, you don’t need a resistant rootstock.”
Why combining works
We start off this series with a very persistent myth: The myth that resistance, like HREZ, always comes at a significant cost. A cost of production, a cost of yield, a cost of plant performance. Something needs to give.
A myth we hear very often, a myth about heat. The fact that hot days might render HREZ ineffective. What's true about the interaction between heat and HREZ?
Does it matter to have more genes versus one gene when it comes to a strong resistance against ToBRFV?
In this episode, Manus addresses a recurring concern in the industry: the idea that ToBRFV will quickly mutate into a form that can bypass HREZ.
Does HREZ make hygiene optional? This episode breaks down the facts and shows why good hygiene is still critical in every growing system.