The Botanics looks forward to hosting the Botanical Society of Scotland's next lecture on 27 November featuring Dr Andrea Harper.
Using a well-characterized collection of Danish ash trees, we identified patterns of gene activity associated with lower disease susceptibility. Many of the genes linked to these patterns are involved in developmental timing processes, such as flowering and bud break, suggesting that natural differences in seasonal growth cycles may influence a tree’s susceptibility or its ability to respond to infection. These insights provide valuable tools for selecting and breeding trees with more favourable responses, helping to safeguard ash populations for the future.
This presentation will introduce the fungus and its disease process, outline our research methods, and share key discoveries about the genetic and biological factors that shape disease progression in ash. Together, our results enhance understanding of how trees naturally avoid or limit infection and point toward sustainable strategies for managing Ash Dieback.
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With thanks to the Botanical Society of Scotland for creating this lecture series and welcoming our members to it. You can find out more about BSS here
Venue note: To access the lecture please enter via the Science Buildings main reception, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR and follow the signs to the Lecture Theatre.
Note this is NOT the public entrance to the Gardens.