The latest issue has recently been posted on our website and features articles on:
Simazine degradation in California citrus orchards. This article focuses on research performed in response to concerns about the effectiveness of simazine as a means of weed control. Here you can read about the experiments performed to test degradation levels and recommendations made regarding use of this herbicide for weed control.
Lime-induced iron chlorosis. Iron deficiencies in many fruit trees can be escalated where soils and irrigation water contain lime which can in turn impede soil drainage. Iron oxides serve as a common source of nutrition for the trees and the deficiency of it can cause dieback and other disorders. This article explores the causes and possible treatments for this condition.
Avocado trunk cankers. UCCE Ventura citrus, avocado and subtropicals advisor, Dr. Ben Faber, contributed this article on the various types and causes for tree cankers. Wounds to the tree, low rainfall, fungi and moisture can promote this disorder.
Asphyxiation. Dr. Faber also explores the problem of asphyxiation that occur in parts or all of the tree. This condition can seriously harm the tree and Dr. Faber discusses some methods of treatment and prevention.
Tree wraps. This article presents information about some of the benefits and considerations in installing wraps on young trees.
Stem and leaf blight. Dr. Faber also wrote this item on blight that he has observed lately on local trees and how insufficient water can contribute to the condition.
Read the full articles from this newsletter or check out other issues of Topics in Subtropics here.