Your source for orchard news & information in the Sacramento Valley
Deer mice are rarely a problem in orchards in California, but when present they can cause damage to irrigation lines and nuts in almond trees, as we found on a recent farm call. The mice were taking advantage of cracks in the shrink-swell soil to more easily create their burrows, which we may see more of in the future as more orchards with drip irrigation come into bear on these shrink-swell soils. Continue reading
As of May 12, 2021, a drought emergency has been declared for 41 CA counties. This blog’s purpose is to share several University of California drought resources that have been created and vetted to support growers during this challenging year. Continue reading
In this article we will provide the latest information on the “why” of mechanical pruning, yields of hand vs. mechanically pruned trees, as well as the when, and how to mechanically prune. Continue reading
Read this article for almond orchard management tasks to keep in mind in May. Continue reading
When needed, shaker thinning can improve a grower’s bottom line this year and next year. Careful, timely thinning increases A & B size fruit production, limits small, lower value prunes in the bin at harvest and improves return bloom next year. Continue reading
When almond prices are low, how can a grower cut costs? Not all insects and mites need to be treated every year, and there are cases where almond growers have a history of spraying more than is necessary. Read this article to learn how to refine your pest management strategy in a lean price year. Continue reading
Read this article for prune orchard management tasks to keep in mind in May. Continue reading
Read this article to learn more about irrigation management for prune orchards using crop developmental stages and stem water potential measurements. Continue reading
As if 2020 didn’t bring enough grief, it appears to have also brought a major autumn freeze that growers and their consultants are now taking stock of. UCCE walnut advisors in the northern Sacramento Valley and Northern San Joaquin Valley have been fielding calls in the past couple weeks regarding extensive damage in young and mature orchards. Continue reading
Read this article for walnut orchard management tasks to keep in mind in May. Continue reading
When prices are lean almond farming is tough business. Read this article to learn about nutrient management considerations when prices are low. Continue reading
There are several online tools and phone applications that can facilitate the process of site evaluation and planning for a new orchard. Read this article to learn more. Continue reading
Read this article for almond orchard management tasks to keep in mind in April. Continue reading
Given low precipitation this past winter and low surface water allocations, many growers may be faced with the difficult prospect of using lower quality water for irrigation this season. What should be considered before irrigating with lower quality water? Continue reading
Read this article for walnut orchard management tasks to keep in mind in April. Continue reading