Spring 1994 (v6n2)
	A multidisciplinary approach to evaluate and aid the transition from conventional to low-input pest management systems in stone fruits. Kent M. Daane and R. Scott Johnson Progress report to the USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program. 1993 During the past two years we have been working in four peach orchards owned by two large farming operations, assisting them in the transition from conventional to reduced chemical (RC) management systems. In each orchard, half of the block has been left under conventional management for comparison. Initially, we concentrated on insect pest management since several "sustainable" tools are available. These tools, which replace broad spectrum pesticides, include oil sprays in the dormant season, a very specific insect bacteria spray (Bacillus thuringiensis) and mating disruption using pheromone confusion. We are also slowly bringing down the nitrogen level in the trees to help in insect and disease management and using composts, manures and/or cover crops to supply nitrogen where feasible. The results from 1993 demonstrated insect control in all four RC block to be as good or better than conventional blocks. There were some minor problems in one of the RC orchards with secondary insect pests. Good progress was made toward a more sustainable approach to brown rot (the major fruit disease of peach) management. Three tools have shown promise: maintenance of moderately low tree nitrogen level, addition of organic composts to the soil and cleaning up of diseased, mummified fruits in the trees. In addition to less fruit disease, the application of compost to the soil has also shown a tendency toward better fruit quality and less fruit damage from insects. Many side studies are being conducted to develop additional RC tools. These include cover crops for weed control on the berms, cover crops for nematode control and pheromone confusion for mating disruption of some secondary pests. Also, a new planting was established on University property where numerous RC techniques will be evaluated and demonstrated to large numbers of visitors. For more information write to: Kearney Agriculture Center, 9249 S. Riverbend, CA 93648. (CI-SUST.098) Contributed by Kent Daane   [ Back | Search | Feedback ]