MARCH | APRIL 2016
Almond Facts
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available. Alternatively, a “two shot” pre-emergent program
could also be considered to stretch residual weed control into
the summer.
If a spring applied pre-emergent product is used, it must be
applied when there is enough rain or irrigation to aid in its
incorporation. This may mean that it is applied with the last
rains of the spring or in microsprinkler or solid-set irrigation
systems. The highest label rate may not be needed in order to
provide effective control at this time of year which may help
with the costs. More information can be found on the IPM
webpage under weed management.
Be careful with post-emergent herbicide spray applications.
Winds tend to be variable in the spring which makes it
difficult to apply material in a timely fashion. Calibrate
equipment, check nozzle orientation and overlaps, and
replace nozzles as needed to help maintain proper spray
particle size to maximize coverage and minimize drift.
Utilize surfactants, water conditioners and drift control
agents to increase efficacy. Be cautious when spraying
around young trees as some herbicides can cause damage.
Generally, I suggest that spring herbicide applications be
made before cartons are removed from two year old trees.
Too wet of soils can kill fine feeder roots, which leads to
the expression of nutrient deficiencies and a yellow color.
Before applying fertilizer, check to see if the soil is too wet.
