Adapted from the Spring 2016 edition of the Sunburst Quantum Yield Newsletter This spring will be characterized by unusually cool weather. Several days are anticipated to be laden with freezing to near freezing temperatures. Our experience with various species of plants, including trees, vines and vegetables, indicates that the degree of negative impact by temperature…
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Crop Programs
Managing Viral Plant Diseases and Reducing Symptoms
Viruses constitute one of the most sophisticated pathogens known to man. They are entirely dependent upon the living host and have developed an intimate association with the host. One adaptation in particular needs mentioning here so that we can understand our rationale on how to combat this pathogen. The virus has a sensitive chemical communication…
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Post-Harvest Defoliation of the Almond Tree Canopy
For many years now, since the mid-1960s, almond growers have been told to defoliate their trees shortly following harvest. In most cases the agent used to defoliate trees was zinc sulfate (36%), applied between 10-25 pounds/acre with a 100 gallon ride. The rationale behind such a recommendation was as follows: Remove the tissue upon which…
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