Armyworms have long been a pest of rice, but 2015 was an outbreak year, and high populations have continued in subsequent years. We don't really know why this is happening, but it could relate to higher minimum winter temperatures (i.e.
This is our second in a series of blog posts on improving nitrogen (N) use efficiency in California small grains. This post focuses on the use of N-rich reference zones to assess in-season N status and make management decisions based on crop need.
General situation: Things have warmed up recently. Our reference weather station for Merced is running about a week ahead of the last of year and a whole 12 days ahead of the 30-year average for heat accumulation, so far this season.
General situation: Things have warmed up recently. Our reference weather station for Stanislaus is running about a 6 days ahead of the last year and 4 days ahead of the 30-year average for heat accumulation, so far this season.
General situation: Things have warmed up recently. Our reference weather station for Eastern San Joaquin is running about a week ahead of the last couple of years and the 30-year average for heat accumulation, so far this season.
General situation: Things have warmed up recently. Our reference weather station for Western San Joaquin is running about a week ahead of the last couple of years and the 30-year average for heat accumulation, so far this season.
General situation: Despite things warming up recently, our reference weather station for Yolo/Colusa/Solano is still behind the last couple of years and the 30-year average for heat accumulation, so far this season.
Four staff research associates will join the ranks of UC Cooperative Extension scientists in the coming months to support nut crop advisors conducting critical research in walnut, almond and pistachio production.
The start of the 2020 pistachio season has been a mixed bag. Most of the southern San Joaquin Valley had decent chill hours, but heat units for bloom were a mixed bag and then we hit the 2.5 rainstorm from 4/5-9 during early bloom instead of February where it should have been.
General situation Planting is well under way, if not complete for the main season crop. The weather is starting to settle into its summer pattern. According to the data from our reference weather station the area is running slightly ahead of the 30 year average.
