Crop Management
Winegrape vineyards can be converted for machine pruning without replanting
Winegrape growers in the San Joaquin Valley who want to switch from hand pruning to mechanical pruning won't have to replant their vineyards to accommodate machinery, according to a new study published in HortTechnology by University of... more »
Robotic frost protection in orchards pursued at Penn State
A system that helps tree-fruit growers avoid frost damage to their crops by using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ground-based robots, could be on the horizon, thanks to Penn State University researchers, supported by funding... more »
Deadline nears for orchard floor management workshop in Michigan
Michigan State University Extension and the Benzie Manistee Horticultural Society invite you to attend “Looking Below the Canopy: Orchard Floor Management to Minimize Orchard Pests and Optimize Fruit Quality.” This workshop will be held April 10,... more »
Comment sought on draft guidance for plant regulators, biostimulants
EPA is releasing for public comment Draft Guidance for Plant Regulators, Including Plant Biostimulants.(2 pp, 230 K, About PDF) In recognition of the growing categories of products generally known as plant biostimulants, this draft document gives guidance... more »
Potash production firms to pay $117M more in taxes
Potash production firms expect a $177 million increase in the taxes they will pay to the Saskatchewan provincial government. Potash is a common fertilizer used in specialty crop agriculture to enrich the soil with potassium.... more »
Genomics reveals secrets of optimal harvest, storage
The study of genomics is yielding useful information for preventing conditions such as soft scald and bitter pit in fruit. Genomics, “the study of genes, their sequence, structure, function, evolution and their expression,” helps to... more »
Nifty Hoops shares considerations for hoophouse selection
The flexible design of hoophouses gives growers many choices. They must select a site, choose a design – probably Gothic Arch or Quonset, decide on the type of ventilation, endwall and fabric, and prepare for... more »
University of California provides advice for nitrogen management
California growers can download a new series of publications summarizing efficient nitrogen management practices from University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR). The publications are designed to assist growers in complying with state regulations... more »