Protecting Almonds

California’s 1.6 million acres of almonds have reached a critical juncture in the growing season. Hull split signals harvest is nearing. It’s also a time when this multi-billion dollar crop is susceptible to threats from Navel Orangeworm and fungal infection. “It’s both a direct pest and an indirect pest,” remarked Dr. Joel Siegel, Research Entomologist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service in Fresno County. He has spent many years studying Navel Orangeworm and working with growers to fight it.  Siegel said if damage occurs from this pest, it could impact almond export trade. “People want a clean product,” he added. “They want a high-quality product, and this insect is one of their main enemies.”There are ways growers can protect their valuable investment.“What’s really worked well for our customers for many years is putting diKaP™ in our hull split sprays,” commented Jared Sannar, Western Regional Sales Manager for Redox Bio-Nutrients. “That has been a really good return on investment. Our 2-3 pound application (per acre), depending on the goals and what you’re trying to accomplish there, has really worked well. You’re trying to drive potassium and phosphorus at late season, but you’re also looking to reduce abiotic stress and other stress factors that you have in the orchard this time of the year.” Sannar added Rx Platinum and diKaP™ soil applied applications are also helpful to help finish the crop and build buds for the next year.  This year’s almond crop is forecast at 2.8 billion pounds, which is nearly identical to last year’s.