Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 has been strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). The main goal of this project was to develop effective alternative pest management systems and outreach strategies that allow cost-efficient production of strawberry, ornamental, and many vegetable crops while reducing MB consumption, increasing the adoption of alternative fumigation chemicals and technologies by the agricultural industries in the future. Two research plots and three large scale demonstration projects were conducted in main strawberry and two cutflower production regions in California. This project established minimum application rates for MeBr alternative fumigants applied under totally impermeable film (TIF). Reduced rates (67% of maximum label rates) of alternative chemicals were evaluated under drip fumigation and shank injection systems using retentive films. Alternative fumigants that were evaluated included PicClor-60 (1,3-D/Pic, 39/60), metam potassium, and various formulations of Paladin (dimethyl disulfide) in combination with Pic. The strategy of combined reduced fumigant rates of these fumigants and increased retention under impermeable films produced economical yields equivalent to the traditional MeBr soil fumigation. The outreach activities and extension efforts included two grower field days, four presentations at grower meetings, and two presentations at national conferences. The results of this project were distributed to scientists from the University of California, Davis, USDA-ARS Salinas and Parlier, Farm Advisors from UCCE Salinas, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, and growers, administrators, representatives of regulatory agencies and the industry. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: This project demonstrated to growers (strawberry, cutflower, vegetable, and perennial crop producers) the efficacy of key soil fumigants applied under retentive tarps (TIF) so that they can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity and to reduce fumigant volatilization to the atmosphere. One field day was held in Salinas and three growers seminars were held in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop losses from soilborne pathogens and weeds causing severe economic distress for growers, price increase for consumers, and reduced competitiveness for growers in international markets. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Registered alternative fumigants were evaluated in research plots and growers' fields under retentive tarp (TIF) at reduced application rates: Pic-Clor60 at 200 to 350 lbs/acre, metam potassium (25 gal/acre), Pic alone at 150 to 350 lbs/acre, and Paladin with Pic at 300 to 500 lbs/ac. All fumigants were applied under TIF. Treatments were compared to MB/Pic at 300 to 350 lbs/ac under standard tarp. In both research and demonstration plots, conventional production practices and pest management for the areas are followed. Weed pressure, yield data, and disease severity will be evaluated throughout the growing season. This project found that the optimum application rates depend on the severity of pathogen and weed infestation and reduced rates (67% of maximum label rates) of the alternative fumigants applied under standard polyethylene tarp are not consistently effective in controlling complex soilborne pathogens and weeds as the MB/Pic shank application at 350 lbs/acre. This project provided a strong evidence that fumigant efficacy and pest management can be improved by using retentive tarp (VIF and TIF) compared to standard polyethylene tarp. For soils that are heavily infested with soilborne pathogens, the minimum application rates of the alternative fumigants under retentive tarp are: 300 lbs/ac of Pic, 350 lbs/ac of Pic-Clor60, and 450 lbs/ac of Paladin mixed with 150 lbs/ac of Pic. The outcome of this project helped growers adopt economical alternatives to MeBr for control of soilborne plant pathogens, nematodes, and weeds in California strawberry, ornamental, and vegetable crop production systems. This research resulted in the development of techniques to apply lower rates of alternative fumigants by shank injection or through drip irrigation systems for strawberry and cutflower production in California. The demonstration plots provided growers with soil disinfestation technologies that are efficacious and economical with minimum environmental risk.
Publications
- 1. Othman, M., and H. Ajwa. 2012. Strawberry Production with Shank and Drip Applied Paladin, Midas, and Pic-Clor 60. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Orlando, FL. Proceeding 18-6.
- 2. Ajwa, H., D. Sullivan, S. Gao, and M. Stanghellini. 2012. Determine emission reduction using totally impermeable film and waiting period for tarp cutting in a large field fumigation trial. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Orlando, FL. Proceeding 4-1.
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Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 has been strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). The main goal of this project was to develop effective alternative pest management systems and outreach strategies that allow cost-efficient production of strawberry, ornamental, and many vegetable crops while reducing MB consumption, increasing the adoption of alternative fumigation chemicals and technologies by the agricultural industries in the future. Nine research plots and five large scale demonstration projects were conducted in three strawberry and two cutflower production regions in California. This project established minimum application rates for MeBr alternative fumigants applied under virtually impermeable film (VIF) and totally-impermeable film (TIF). Reduced rates (50% and 67% of maximum label rates) of alternative chemicals were evaluated under drip fumigation and shank injection systems using retentive films (VIF or TIF). Alternative fumigants that were evaluated included PicClor-60 (1,3-D/Pic, 39/60), Midas (iodomethane/Pic, 33/67), metam potassium, and various formulations of Paladin (dimethyl disulfide) in combination with Pic. The strategy of combined reduced fumigant rates of these fumigants and increased retention under impermeable films produced economical yields equivalent to the traditional MeBr soil fumigation. The outcome of this project helped growers adopt economical alternatives to MeBr for control of soilborne plant pathogens, nematodes, and weeds in California strawberry, ornamental, and vegetable crop production systems. The outreach activities and extension efforts included two grower field days, six presentations at grower meetings, and two presentations at national conferences. The results of this project were distributed to scientists from the University of California, Davis, USDA-ARS Salinas and Parlier, Farm Advisors from UCCE Salinas, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, and more than 200 growers, administrators, representatives of regulatory agencies and the industry. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: This project demonstrated to growers (strawberry, cutflower, vegetable, and perennial crop producers) the efficacy of key soil fumigants applied under retentive tarps (TIF and VIF) so that they can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity and to reduce fumigant volatilization to the atmosphere. Two field days and one workshop were held in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop losses from soilborne pathogens and weeds causing severe economic distress for growers, price increase for consumers, and reduced competitiveness for growers in international markets. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Registered alternative fumigants were evaluated in research plots and growers' fields under retentive tarps (VIF and TIF) at reduced application rates: Pic-Clor60 at 200 to 350 lbs/acre alone or followed by metam potassium (25 gal/acre), Pic alone at 150 to 350 lbs/acre, Midas at rates between 100 to 250 lbs/acre, and Paladin with Pic at 300 to 600 lbs/ac. All fumigants were applied under VIF or TIF. Treatments were compared to MB/Pic at 300 to 350 lbs/ac under standard tarp. In both research and demonstration plots, conventional production practices and pest management for the areas are followed. Weed pressure, yield data, and disease severity will be evaluated throughout the growing season. This project found that the optimum application rates depend on the severity of pathogen and weed infestation and reduced rates (70% of maximum label rates) of the alternative fumigants applied under standard polyethylene tarp are not consistently effective in controlling complex soilborne pathogens and weeds as the MB/Pic shank application at 350 lbs/acre. This project provided a strong evidence that fumigant efficacy and pest management can be improved by using retentive tarp (VIF and TIF) compared to standard polyethylene tarp. For the majority of production fields, the most economical application rates of the alternative fumigation treatment under retentive tarp are: 250 lbs/ac of Pic, 300 lbs/ac of Pic-Clor60, 200 lbs/ac of Midas, and 300 lbs/ac of Paladin mixed with 100 lbs/ac of Pic. For soils that are heavily infested with soilborne pathogens, the minimum application rates of the alternative fumigants under retentive tarp are: 300 lbs/ac of Pic, 350 lbs/ac of Pic-Clor60, 300 lbs/ac of Midas, and 450 lbs/ac of Paladin mixed with 150 lbs/ac of Pic. However, these rates can be reduced by 30% if metam potassium is sequentially or co-applied with these fumigants. This research plots resulted in the development of techniques to apply lower rates of alternative fumigants by shank injection or through drip irrigation systems for strawberry and cutflower production in California. The demonstration plots provided growers with soil disinfestation technologies that are efficacious and economical with minimum environmental risk.
Publications
- 1. Othman, M., J. Hunzie, S. Koike, T. Gordon, and H. Ajwa. 2011. Paladin (DMDS), Midas, and Pic-Clor 60 for Strawberry Production in California. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Proceeding 36.
- 2. Triky-Dotan, S., J. Hunzie, and H. Ajwa. 2011. Iodomethane Efficacy and Fate in California Soils. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA.. Proceeding 41.
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 has been strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). This project was developed to demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in CA. The main objective of this project was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through shank injection and drip irrigation systems for strawberry and cutflower production in CA. Previous research showed that in areas with higher soil-borne pathogens pressure, lower rates of fumigants may not reach the threshold of the standard mixture of MB/Pic. However, the early research indicated that the use of virtually impermeable film (VIF) instead of standard polyethylene (PE) tarp may allow for lower application rates of fumigants without losing the efficacy to control soilborne fungal pathogens and weeds. New research plots were initiated in Salinas, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between July and November, 2010 to evaluate the efficacy of reduced rates (60% of maximum label rates) of alternative fumigants to MB applied by shank injection and/or through drip irrigation systems under standard PE tarp, totally-impermeable film (TIF), and VIF. The fumigant treatments were: MB/Pic (67/33), Pic, Pic-60 (Pic plus 1,3-dichloropropene; 62/35), dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), and Midas (iodomethane plus Pic, 33/67). In addition to research plots, growers' demonstration plots for strawberry were initiated in Salinas and Oxnard, and for cut flowers in Santa Maria. Alternative fumigants and rates used were: Pic-60 at 200 to 250 lbs/acre, Pic-60 followed by K-pam (36 gal/acre), Pic alone at 200 lbs/acre, and Midas at rates between 100 to 250 lbs/acre. All fumigants were applied under virtually impermeable film. Treatments were compared to MB/Pic standard mixture. In both research and demonstration plots, conventional production practices and pest management for the areas are followed. Weed pressure, yield data, and disease severity will be evaluated throughout the growing season. The outreach activities and extension efforts included grower field tours, grower field days, presentations at grower meetings and national conferences. This project demonstrated that key drip and shank applied fumigants can replace MB/Pic under retentive tarps for strawberry and cutflower production in CA. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: This project demonstrated to growers (strawberry, cutflower, vegetable, and perennial crop producers) the efficacy of key soil fumigants applied under retentive tarps (TIF and VIF) so that they can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity and to reduce fumigant volatilization to the atmosphere. Two field days and one workshop were held in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop losses from soilborne pathogens and weeds causing severe economic distress for growers, price increase for consumers, and reduced competitiveness for growers in international markets. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply lower rates of alternative fumigants by shank injection or through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cutflowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration projects are providing growers with soil disinfestation technologies that are efficacious with minimum environmental risk and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 70% of fumigated land used the alternative fumigants in 2010.
Publications
- 1. Othman, M., H. Ajwa, S. Fennimore, F. Martin, K. Subbarao, and J. Hunzie. 2010. Dimethyl disulfide plus chloropicrin as methyl bromide alternatives for strawberry production. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Orlando, FL. Proceeding 4.
- 2. Triky-Dotan, S., J. Hunzie, and H. Ajwa. 2010. Dissipation of soil fumigants following repeated applications. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Orlando, FL. Proceeding 19.
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 is strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). This project was developed to demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. The main objective of this project was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Three research plots were initiated in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard between September and November, 2009. Reduced rates (50% of maximum label rates) of alternative chemicals were applied through drip irrigation systems under standard polyethylene tarp and Totally Impermeable film (TIF). The treatments were: MB/Pic (67/33), Pic, InLine (1,3-D/Pic, 62/35), and Midas (iodomethane/Pic, 50/50) applied at 200, 200, 300, and 200 lbs/acre, respectively. Conventional production practices and pest management for the areas were followed. Densities of native weed populations, plant growth and yield parameters were evaluated at regular intervals during the season. Results from earlier research with low rates of fumigants under virtually impermeable film were inconclusive. The current research indicates that a minimum of 200 lbs/acre of any of the tested fumigants is needed for adequate efficacy to control soilborne fungal pathogens. In addition to the research trials, three demonstration plots (each approximately one acre) were established on strawberry growers' fields in Salinas, Watsonville, and Oxnard between July and November, 2008. Fumigants were applied at 200 or 300 lbs/acre under standard mulch and TIF. The purpose of this project was to demonstrate the economical and environmental benefits of using TIF for commercial strawberry production. Results for the demonstration project suggest that these rates applied under TIF are sufficient to control weeds and to produce acceptable commercial yields. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: This project demonstrated to growers (strawberry, cut flower, and vegetable producers) the efficacy of key soil fumigants applied under totally impermeable film so that they can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity and to reduce fumigant volatilization to the atmosphere. Two field days and one workshop were held in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 60% of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2009.
Publications
- M. Othman, H.A. Ajwa, S. Fennimore, F. Martin, K. Subbarao, G. Browne, and J. Hunzie (2009). Strawberry Production with Reduced Rates of Methyl Bromide Alternatives Applied under Retentive Film. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Proceedings 55.
- H. Ajwa, D. Sullivan, M. Stanghellini, W. Ntow, M. Holdsworth, and J. Hunzie (2009). Volatilization Losses of Methyl Bromide and Chloropicrin from Drip Fumigated Beds Covered with Totally Impermeable Tarp. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Proceedings 514.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 is strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). This project was developed to demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. The main objective of this project was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Four research plots were initiated in Watsonville, Salinas, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between September and November, 2008. Reduced rates (50% of maximum label rates) of alternative chemicals were applied through drip irrigation systems under standard polyethylene tarp and Virtually Impermeable film (VIF). The treatments were: MB/Pic (67/33), Pic, InLine (1,3-D/Pic, 62/35), and Midas (iodomethane/Pic, 50/50) applied at 150, 150, 200, and 150 lbs/acre, respectively. Conventional production practices and pest management for the areas were followed. Densities of native weed populations, plant growth and yield parameters were evaluated at regular intervals during the season. This research found that reduced rates of fumigants did not control soilborne fungal pathogens and fruit production was significantly lower than fruit production obtained with full rate of MB/Pic fumigation. In addition to the research trials, five demonstration plots (each approximately one acre) were established on strawberry growers' fields in Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between July and November, 2007. Chloropicrin and Midas were applied at 150 lbs/ac and InLine was applied at 200 lbs/acre under standard mulch and VIF. The purpose of this project was to demonstrate drip fumigation to strawberry growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Results suggest that these rates applied under VIF are sufficient to control weeds but insufficient to produce commercial yields. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Demonstrate to strawberry growers the performance of key alternative fumigants so that they can make informed decisions during the transition to alternative fumigants. Three field days were held in Santa Maria, Oxnard, and Salinas. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 50% of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2008.
Publications
- H.A. Ajwa (2008). Testing film permeability to fumigants under laboratory and field conditions. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Proceedings 35.
- R. Qin, S. Gao, and H. Ajwa (2008). Low permeable tarps reduce emissions from drip-applied Inline in a strawberry field trial. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Proceedings 114.
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
Many crops are highly dependent on soil fumigation with methyl bromide/chloropicrin (MB/Pic). The continued use of MB by certain commodities after January 2005 is strictly regulated by critical use exemptions (CUE). This project was developed to demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. The main objective of this project was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Several research plots were conducted in Watsonville and Salinas between September and November, 2007. The alternative chemicals tested were MB/Pic (67/33), Pic, InLine (1,3-D/Pic, 62/35), and Midas (iodomethane/Pic, 50/50) at rates of 300, 200, 300, and 200 lbs/acre, respectively. These fumigants were drip-applied under standard polyethylene tarp and Vertually Impermeable film (VIF). Conventional production practices and pest management for the areas were
followed. Densities of native weed populations, plant growth and yield parameters were evaluated at regular intervals during the season. This research found that crop quality and yield under the alternative fumigants to be equivalent to those grown under MeBr/chloropicrin fumigated soils. In addition to the research trials, five demonstration plots (each ~1 acre) were established on strawberry growers' fields in Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between July and November, 2007. Chloropicrin and Midas were applied at 200 lbs/ac and InLine was applied at 300 lbs/acre under standard mulch and VIF. The purpose of this project was to demonstrate drip fumigation to strawberry growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Results suggest that these rates applied under VIF are sufficient to control weeds and to produce commercial yields.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 55% of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2007.
Publications
- S. Shem-Tov, and H.A. Ajwa (2007). Efficacy of drip and shank applied Midas for strawberry production. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Proceedings 30.
- H. A. Ajwa, and W. Ha. (2007). Plastic film permeability to soil fumigants. In: Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Proceedings 4.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
The soil fumigant methyl bromide (MeBr) is applied extensively to suppress soil-borne fungal pathogens and weeds in many crops. Methyl bromide is a potential ozone depleting substance and is being phased-out. The main objective of this project is to develop, field test, and demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. Seven field research and demonstration projects were initiated to test and optimize chemical alternatives to MeBr for strawberry and cut flowers production in California. Research Experiments: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in California two research plots were initiated in Watsonville and Salinas. The alternative chemicals tested were chloropicrin (200 lbs/ac), Inline (300 lbs/ac), Midas (200 lbs/ac), and KPam (30 gal/ac). This research found that crop quality and yield under
the alternative fumigants to be equivalent to those grown under MeBr/chloropicrin fumigated soils. Growers Demonstration Project: Four demonstration plots (each 1 acre) were established on growers' fields in Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between July and November, 2006. Chloropicrin, Inline, and Midas were applied at 200 lbs/ac under standard mulch and Vertually Impermeable film (VIF). Metam potassium was applied at 30 gal/ac to one-half of the treatments. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate drip fumigation to strawberry and cut flower growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Results suggest that reduced rates (200 lbs/ac) are sufficient to control pathogens if applied in combination with metam sodium.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 30 percent of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2005.
Publications
- Ajwa, H.A., S. Shemtov, S. Fennimore, and B. Weber. 2006. Efficacy of Two Formulations of MIDAS for Strawberry Production. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternative Reductions and Emission Reductions. Nov. 6-9, 2006, Orlando, FL.
- Shemtov, Shachar, H.A. Ajwa, and S. Fennimore. 2006. Strawberry Yield and Weed Control with Alternative Fumigants Applied in Combination with Metam Under Various Tarps. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Nov. 6-9, 2006, Orlando, FL.
- Shemtov, Shachar, H.A. Ajwa, S. Fennimore, and J. Hunzie. 2006. Strawberry Production and Weed Control in Soils Treated with Basamid and Chloropicrin. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Nov. 6-9, 2006, Orlando, FL.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
The soil fumigant methyl bromide (MeBr) is applied extensively to suppress soil-borne fungal pathogens and weeds in many crops. Methyl bromide is a potential ozone depleting substance and is being phased-out. The main objective of this project is to develop, field test, and demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. Six field research and demonstration projects were initiated to test and optimize chemical alternatives to MeBr for strawberry and cut flowers production in California. Research Experiments: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Three research plots were initiated in Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard. The alternative chemicals tested were chloropicrin (200 lbs/ac), Inline (300 lbs/ac), Midas (200 lbs/ac), and KPam (30 gal/ac). This research found that crop quality and yield
under the alternative fumigants to be equivalent to those grown under MeBr/chloropicrin fumigated soils. Growers Demonstration Project: Three demonstration plots (each 1 acre) were established on growers fields in Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard between July and November, 2005. Chloropicrin, Inline, and Midas were applied at 200 lbs/ac under standard mulch and Virtually Impermeable film (VIF). Metam sodium was applied at 45 gal/ac to one-half of the treatments. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate drip fumigation to strawberry and cut flower growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Results suggest that reduced rates (greater than 200 lbs/ac) are sufficient to control pathogens if applied in combination with metam sodium.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 30 percent of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2005.
Publications
- AJWA, H.A., FENNIMORE, S., BROWNE, G., MARTIN, F., TROUT, T., DUNIWAY, J., SHEMTOV, S., AND DAUGOVISH, O. 2005. Strawberry Yield with Various Rates of Chloropicrin and InLine Applied Under VIF. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Abstract 53.
- AJWA, H.A., SHEMTOV, S., KLOSE, S., FENNIMORE, S., AND Roth, K. 2005. Strawberry Yield and Weed Control with Shank and Drip Applied Midas. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Abstract 7. STROMBERGER, M., KLOSE, S., AJWA, H., TROUT, T., AND FENNIMORE, S. 2005. Microbial Populations and Enzyme Activities in Soils Fumigated with Methyl Bromide Alternatives. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 69:1987-1999.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
The soil fumigant methyl bromide (MeBr) is applied extensively to suppress soil-borne fungal pathogens and weeds in many crops. Methyl bromide is a potential ozone depleting substance and is scheduled for phase-out by 2005. The main objective of this project is to develop, field test, and demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. Three field research experiments and Four demonstration projects were initiated to test and optimize chemical alternatives to MeBr for strawberry and cut flowers production in California. Research Experiments: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Four research plots were initiated in Watsonville, Salinas, and Solidad. The alternative chemicals tested were chloropicrin (200 lbs/ac), Inline (300 lbs/ac), Midas (200 lbs/ac), and KPam (30 gal/ac). This research found
that crop quality and yield under the alternative fumigants to be equivalent to those grown under MeBr/chloropicrin fumigated soils. Growers Demonstration Project: Four demonstration plots (each approx. 1 acre) were established on growers' fields in Watsonville, Santa Maria, Oxnard, and Carlsbad between July and November, 2004. Chloropicrin, Inline, and Midas were applied at 200 lbs/ac under standard mulch and Vertually Impermeable film (VIF). Metam sodium was applied at 45 gal/ac to one-half of the treatments. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate drip fumigation to strawberry and cut flower growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Results suggest that reduced rates (less than 200 lbs/ac) are sufficient to control pathogens if applied in combination with metam sodium.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop (strawberry and cut flowers) losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry, cut flowers, and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 35% of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2004.
Publications
- AJWA, H.A., FENNIMORE, S., KABIR, Z., MARTIN, F., DUNIWAY, J., BROWNE, G., TROUT, T., Khan, A., AND Daugovish, O. 2004. Strawberry yield with chloropicrin and Inline in combination with metam sodium and VIF. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. Orlando, FL. Abstract 38.
- KLOSE, S. AND H.A. AJWA. 2004. Enzyme activities in agricultural soils fumigated with methyl bromide alternatives. Soil Biol. Biochem (36):1625-1635.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Methyl bromide (MeBr) is applied extensively in CA as a preplant biocide for production of strawberries, vegetable crops, ornamental and cut flowers, and perennial crops. The main objective of this project is to develop, field test, and demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. Two field research experiments and three demonstration projects were initiated to test and optimize chemical alternatives to MeBr in California. Research Trials: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Two research plots were initiated in Watsonville and Salinas. The alternative chemicals tested were chloropicrin (300 lbs/ac), Inline (300 lbs/ac), and iodomethane (300 lbs/ac). This research found that crop quality and yield under the alternative fumigants to be equivalent to those grown under MeBr/chloropicrin
fumigated soils. On-Farm Demonstration Project: Three demonstration plots (each 1 acre) were established on growers fields in Oxnard, Salinas, and Watsonville between July and October, 2003. Chloropicrin and Inline were applied at three rates (100, 200, and 300 lbs/ac) followed by 45 gal/ac of metam sodium. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate drip fumigation to growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under different soil types. Results suggest that reduced rates of these fumigants(< 200 lbs/ac)are sufficient to control pathogens if applied in combination with metam sodium.
Impacts
The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry and vegetable crops). This research also determined optimum parameters for applying metam sodium under various soil conditions. The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation. According to recent data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, more than 20% of the strawberry land was fumigated with the alternative fumigants in 2003.
Publications
- AJWA, H.A., FENNIMORE, S., KABIR, Z., MARTIN, F., DUNIWAY, J., BROWNE, G., TROUT, T., GOODHUE, R., and GUERRERO, L. 2003. Strawberry yield under reduced application rates of chloropicrin and Inline in combination with metam sodium and VIF. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Abstract 2.
- AJWA, H.A., NELSON, S.D., AND TROUT, T. 2003. Water and methyl isothiocyanate distribution in soil after drip fumigation with metam sodium. Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions. San Diego, CA. Abstract 37.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
Methyl bromide (MeBr) is applied extensively in CA as a preplant biocide for production of vegetable crops and strawberries. The main objective of this project is to develop, field test, and demonstrate crop production practices that will eliminate the use of methyl bromide in California. Four field research experiments and three demonstration projects were initiated to test and optimize chemical alternatives to MeBr in the coastal areas of California. Research Experiments: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of several alternative fumigants applied through drip irrigation systems for strawberry production in CA. Four research plots were initiated in Watsonville, Salinas, and Oxnard. The alternative chemicals tested were chloropicrin (300 lbs/ac), Inline (400 lbs/ac), iodomethane (400 lbs/ac), and propargyl bromide (180 lbs/ac). This research found that fruit yields were significantly greater in the chemical treatments than in the untreated plots.
Drip fumigation with any of these chemicals provided excellent control of soil borne pathogens and produced yields equivalent to those of MeBr/chloropicrin fumigation. Growers Demonstration Project: Three demonstration plots (each approx. 2 acres) were established on growers' fields in Oxnard, Santa Maria, and Watsonville between July and October, 2002. Chloropicrin and Inline were applied at three rates (100, 200, and 300 lbs/ac) under virtually impermeable film (VIF) standard polyethylene film. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate drip fumigation to growers and to evaluate reduced rates of fumigants under VIF for different soil types. Initial results suggest that reduced rates (less than 200 lbs/ac) are sufficient to control pathogens if applied under VIF. Pathogen evaluation is in progress. Fruit harvest will begin in January, 2003.
Impacts
Industries valued at more than 5 billion dollars in California depend on MeBr soil fumigation. The phase out of MeBr will result in great crop losses from soil-borne pathogens and weeds. This multidisciplinary project evaluates alternative chemicals and practices for crop production. Our research effort resulted in the development of techniques to apply alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems for crop production (strawberry and vegetable crops). The demonstration project provides growers with application technologies of alternative fumigants through drip irrigation systems that are efficacious and lower risk, and lower cost than MeBr fumigation.
Publications
- Fennimore, S.A., M.J. Haar, K. Roth, J.A. Valdez, and H. Ajwa. 2002. Weed control in strawberry with alternative fumigants. Ann. Int'l. Res. Conf. on Methyl Bromide Proceedings 5. Orlando, FL.
- Trout, T., H. Ajwa, S. Schneider, and J. Gartung. 2002. Fumigation and fallowing effects on replant problems in California peach. In: Ann. Int'l. Res. Conf. on Methyl Bromide (Proceedings 40)
- Ajwa, H.A., T. Trout, S. Fennimore, C. Winterbottom, F. Martin, J. Duniway, G. Browne, B. Westerdahl, R. Goodhue, and L. Guerrero. 2002. Strawberry production with alternative fumigants appl through drip irrigation sys. Ann. Int'l. Res. Conf. on Methyl Bromide Proceedings 14. Orlando, Fl.
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