ISHS Acta Horticulturae 347: II International Symposium on Integrated Fruit Production
WEED CONTROL IN INTEGRATED FRUIT PRODUCTION |
| Authors: | J.V. Cross, M.J. Marks, A. Greenfield |
| Abstract:
Current production systems for apples and pears rely on intensive use of broad-spectrum and persistent herbicides continuously to maintain a weed-free strip under the tree, or, alternatively, overall bare soil. In Integrated Fruit Production (IFP) the aim is to minimise the use of herbicides in orchards, and avoid the undesirable consequences of their use, such as water pollution or spray or vapour drift. This must be done economically and whilst maintaining current levels of yield and quality. A range of alternative strategies for achieving this aim is reviewed, including alternative cultural methods of weed control and more efficient and safer use of herbicides. Priority must be given to non-chemical methods of weed control. Non-competitive ground cover plants offer potential for an alternative cultural method but more research is needed to identify suitable species and methods of use. Non-rotted organic mulches (eg., straw) are an alternative but costs are likely to be high in comparison to conventional herbicide management. Uptake by growers is likely to be limited unless other additional benefits, such as improved yield or quality can be realised. Surface cultivations, even to the weed free strip only, should be avoided because they are detrimental to soil structure and increase the risk of storage rots. Where, as a last resort, assessment of weed populations shows that herbicide treatments need to be made to supplement cultural measures, the most selective, least persistent products which are as safe as possible to humans, livestock and the environment must be selected. Criteria for making this selection are appraised. Methods of improving the efficiency and safety of herbicide application methods, including improving sprayer patternation, controlled droplet application techniques and the use of adjuvants are discussed. *ADAS is an Executive Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Welsh Office. | |
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