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Pistachio

Survey for weeds: Postharvest

Surveying for weeds in the fall accomplishes two tasks. It will identify any summer annual weeds that escaped the current year's weed control program. Adjustments can be made to control these species next year. Fall monitoring will also identify any winter species that are emerging.

Ideally, tree rows are weed-free, whereas weeds growing in row middles may be beneficial in reducing erosion, soil compaction, water runoff, and sediment runoff to creeks and streams that ultimately impairs water quality. However, perennial weeds are problematic and should be kept from establishing in row middles.

How to survey your fields:

• After the first rains of the fall look for winter annual weeds in tree rows to check the effectiveness of any preemergence herbicide applications.
• Check the ground cover in row middles for perennial seedlings.
• Record weed infestation on a weed survey form and use the map to show areas of problematic weeds.

Important links

• Photos of winter annual weed seedlings
• Photos of perennial weed seedlings
• Example weed survey form (PDF)
• Weed management in established orchards

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