Weed identification
The importance of knowing the weed species present and the extent of the spread can provide you with valuable insight on possible control strategies. Not all weed problems need to be controlled by a blanket application to the tree rows. Some weeds introduce themselves into orchards in discrete patches rather than over the entire orchard floor. Quackgrass, nutsedge, and thistle tend to enter an orchard in one area then jump in patches. Weeds that produce fruit and seeds for animals to disperse may also typically develop in patches. Site-specific herbicide applications to these “patch communities” will be more cost-effective as long as they are timed appropriately. On the other hand, weed species that depend primarily on wind dispersal of their seeds for spread may spread evenly over the orchard; a good example is dandelions and their light, airy seeds. This is also a point of attack for control. Destroy weeds before they flower and shed seeds. Pay particular attention to the edge of your orchard or along the roadsides. In the late summer and early fall scout your orchard for weeds, and map out the weed patches. Try to identify any weeds you are unsure of. Destroy weeds in flower before they shed seeds. This is very important around field edges and along roadsides. Many of our problem weeds are being blown into the orchards.
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