are blocking equipment access, creating a safety
hazard, or are dead or dying should be removed.
Selective limb removal also has been shown to increase
spray coverage, reduce sticks at harvest, as well as
reduce foliar diseases.
Orchard Removal and Replanting
If planning to redevelop a block, consider harvesting the
later varieties earlier to allow more time in the process.
Nematode sampling should occur prior to removal
to determine which species are present and assist in
rootstock selection. This can be done one to two years
prior to removal. Line up the resources for orchard
removal, which can be done by tub grinders, whole
orchard incorporation, or removal for firewood. Once
removed, the field should be ripped to the depth of 30
inches or greater several times to assist in root removal
and reducing compaction. Some cases, ripping deeper
should occur to assist with breaking or re-breaking
hardpan. Backhoeing has been shown to be effective
in increasing tree growth with or without fumigation in
sandy soils and is recommended for these conditions.
After soil modification, the field should be disked and
spring-toothed to assist in root removal and leveling.
After settling, the ground can be leveled and berms
can be pulled. Fumigation should be considered,
especially for sandy loam to sand soils to manage
Prunus Replant Disease and plant parasitic nematodes.
If fumigating, most of the land prep should be done
prior to fumigation, with the exception of pulling the
berms. Moving soil around after fumigation defeats the
When replanting an orchard, pre-plant fumigation should be
considered to manage biological replant problems. Rootstock
selection should consider the types of nematodes present and
soil factors including salinity and pH.
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