sept-oct-2020

While it is hard to be certain which factor is responsible, and it is likely multiple benefits are contributing, the University of California study found that orchards with cover crops also have higher almond yields. At the Merced county site yields were 225 pounds per acre higher when compared to control orchards with resident vegetation/weeds. In Kern county the yields were 94 pounds per acre higher when compared to bare soil. Busting common myths about the risks associated with cover cropping is also a valuable part of this research. The risk of frost damage is a concern some growers have when deciding whether to use cover crops. Preliminary results on the effects of frost were intriguing and may help shed some light on the role cover crops play in orchard temperatures. At ground level orchard floors with cover crops were cooler by a few degrees than those with bare ground or resident vegetation. However, at a height of five feet above ground the average temperatures of the orchard with a cover crop and without were the same. Research into temperature dynamics is ongoing. CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY Enroll for Seeds for Bees Today The 2020–2021 Seeds for Bees open enrollment period is going on now. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by going to the Project Apis m . Seeds for Bees website (projectapism.org/seeds-for-bees.html ). We are currently accepting applications through November 1st, or until we run out of seed. Growers of all types can apply and first year applicants are awarded up to $2,000 of free seed. Keep in mind: early planting is key to getting the greatest benefit possible from your cover crop stand. Feel free to contact me, Billy Synk, at Billy @ ProjectApism.org for any questions regarding the Seeds for Bees program, cover crops, habitat or bees/pollination. Predator insects, like this hungry wasp photographed in a Seeds for Bees Wildflower planting, benefit from cover crops and habitat along with pollinators. Insect predators can help control insect pest populations — another benefit of planting Seeds for Bees. 2 0 A L M O N D F A C T S Billy@ProjectApism.org Project Apis m. Director of Pollination Programs, Billy Synk,