Author Archives: Sacramento Valley Orchards

Thinning or Not? Weigh the Benefits Against the Costs Before Deciding “Not” This Season

Posted on April 28 2026 by Sacramento Valley Orchards

Domena A. Agyeman, UCCE Agricultural Economic Advisor; Butte, Glenn, and Tehama Counties Becky Wheeler-Dykes, UCCE Orchard Systems Advisor; Glenn, Tehama and Colusa Counties Cropload management is one of the most important practices in prune production. Timely and appropriate (fruit per … Continue reading →

Selecting the Best Walnut Rootstock for Your Situation – an Update on Commercial and New Clonal Walnut Rootstocks (2026)

Posted on March 24 2026 by Sacramento Valley Orchards

A lot of factors impact the planting decision. Once a site is selected, the three critical decisions in establishing a new walnut orchard are variety selection, rootstock selection, and tree/row spacing. The spacing should be determined after the variety and rootstock are chosen because that combination will determine the ultimate size of the tree, along with the soil type and orchard management. Rootstocks are the foundation of a walnut orchard. Selecting one that tolerates or resists site problems, while providing vigor for optimum tree performance, is key to orchard productivity, health, and longevity.  As pesticide and fumigant options become more limited and restrictive, rootstocks that resist or tolerate soilborne pathogens offer a pathway to long-term management. Continue reading →