…expected yield response. Soil and tissue samples should guide spending decisions. By identifying recurring deficiencies or nutrient imbalances, growers can allocate dollars where they will have the greatest impact. In…
Understanding Soil Tests: pH, CEC, and Base Saturation in Permanent Crops
…nutrients it cannot retain. Next, Rogers reviews base saturation levels to assess soil balance. For example, if calcium levels are already high, skipping a routine gypsum application may be warranted….
Using Tissue and Soil Data to Build Next Season’s Fertility Plan
…soil can interfere with zinc uptake, while sodium issues may impact potassium availability. By recognizing these interactions, growers can make targeted adjustments instead of simply increasing fertilizer rates. Fall soil…
California Agriculture’s Champions: John Duarte on Leadership, Policy & the Future
…California agriculture operates in one of the most complex regulatory environments in the world. Growers must balance sustainability, compliance, workforce stability, and profitability — all while competing in global markets….
Using PGRs to Extend Bloom and Improve Nut Set in California Orchards
…conditions are less than ideal. Timing is critical when using PGRs. Unlike fungicides or insecticides, PGRs must be applied within specific growth stages to be effective. For cherries, applications are…
Edward Ring Says Energy Abundance Could Transform California’s Water and Agriculture Future
…Ring explained, is regulatory instability. Oil producers and refiners are hesitant to invest in long-term infrastructure if policy shifts every election cycle. Without consistent leadership and predictable rules, companies won’t…
Fertigation vs. Foliar Sprays: Choosing the Right Nutrition Strategy
…can be especially useful when tissue samples indicate a deficiency that needs a more immediate correction. Micronutrient management is another area where foliar sprays can provide an advantage. As Rogers…
Edward Ring: Dredging the Delta Could Unlock Millions of Acre-Feet for California
…dry when pumps are operating. In his view, this is one of the rare opportunities where agricultural, urban, and environmental interests could align. Ring also addressed groundwater recharge. During recent…
Record Pistachio Crop, Global Demand, and California’s Water Reality
…inputs, with minimal pesticide and herbicide use compared to many row crops. That message is landing overseas, helping demand outpace supply and strengthening pricing for growers. Tariffs, Trade, and Nutrient-Dense…
How Sodium Interferes with Potassium Uptake in Tree Crops
…tests often reveal elevated sodium levels in orchards where potassium uptake is lagging. When sodium concentrations are high, they compete directly with potassium in the soil solution. “It’s going to…
Managing Fungicide Resistance in California Almond Orchards
Fungicide resistance is becoming an increasingly important concern for California almond growers as key diseases show reduced sensitivity to commonly used chemistries. In a recent interview, Kendall Johnson, Technical Services…
John Duarte Lays Out a Blueprint for Water Abundance as World Ag Expo Hits Full Swing
…reduce flood risk while allowing reservoirs to retain more water upstream. He pointed to recent flooding threats in communities like Corcoran as proof that current infrastructure is inadequate and outdated….
How 19th-Century Technology Transformed Corn and Wheat Farming
…Turning Point in American Agricultural History The contrast between 1850 and 1890 illustrates a pivotal era in farming history. While land use for corn production remained stable, labor efficiency improved…
Soil and Foliar Strategies to Improve Micronutrient Availability
…be deficient even when soil test levels look adequate. Those nutrient relationships are especially important when it comes to micronutrients. In permanent crops, zinc is often top of mind. Rogers…