Our research program focuses on all aspects of pear (Pyrus communis) and sweet cherry (Prunus avium) orchard production systems, with a particular emphasis on improving yield and fruit quality in both crops. Current projects include the development of bud cold hardiness models to predict frost risk in sweet cherry and pear, optimizing irrigation practices for establishing the dwarfing pear rootstock ‘Quince Eline’, and using physiological indicators to identify X-disease-infected cherry trees. We are also investigating sweet cherry rootstock sensitivity to X-disease. Collaborative efforts involve evaluating phase-two selections from the WSU sweet cherry breeding program and assessing non-Pyrus rootstocks that may offer dwarfing and precocity benefits to pear scions.