Pest Management Considerations and Planning When Replanting an Almond Orchard

This course provides an in-depth exploration of best practices and challenges in establishing and managing almond orchards, focusing on pest, pathogen, and soil health management. Through a combination of diagnostic tools, case studies, and scientific insights, the course emphasizes identifying potential issues and implementing tailored mitigation strategies to optimize orchard productivity. The speaker integrates practical tools such as Google Earth and soil maps, alongside field diagnostics and laboratory testing, to address various orchard challenges, including irrigation, nematodes, fumigation, rootstock selection, and post-plant management.

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

• Problem Identification and Mitigation: Learn to identify potential problems in almond orchards, including pathogens, pests, and abiotic factors, using tools like Google Earth, soil maps, and field diagnostics.
• Soil and Irrigation Management: Understand the importance of accurate soil pH testing, irrigation system optimization, and addressing soil variability to enhance orchard health.
• Nematode and Disease Control: Explore sampling techniques, fumigation practices, and rootstock selection to manage nematodes and mitigate disease risks effectively.
• Post-Plant and Alternative Strategies: Discover post-plant chemical controls and alternative pre-plant methods, such as anaerobic soil disinfestation, to improve orchard resilience and productivity.