Source: UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS submitted to
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR ORGANIC ORCHARD NUTRITION
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0213893
Grant No.
2008-51300-04819
Cumulative Award Amt.
$757,882.00
Proposal No.
2008-01251
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Sep 1, 2008
Project End Date
Aug 31, 2013
Grant Year
2008
Program Code
[113]- Integrated Organic Program
Recipient Organization
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
(N/A)
FAYETTEVILLE,AR 72703
Performing Department
HORTICULTURE
Non Technical Summary
Organic fruit production in the South is limited. Previous work has determined that there is an opportunity for local and regional markets for organically produced fruit. However, production is limited due to lack of region and locally specific tested and demonstrated research-based information. Preliminary survey work indicated that two significant horticultural problems facing organic producers are ground cover and weed management, and management of nutrient status of the tree with fertiliers or nutrient sources, and soil and foliar testing protocols. Because sustainable organic production has as a cornerstone principal, the development and management of soil quality and health, and because both nutrient management and ground cover management interact to affect soil quality and health, and thereby tree growth and productivity, a study was initiated. The goal of the study is to develop and demonstrate science based, regionally appropriate organic production systems for apples in the southern region. The specific focus of the study is to develop, demonstrate and communicate the best practices for organic orchard nutrition by studying the interaction of ground cover management and nutrient source on organic orchard growth and productivity. An organic orchard was planted using standard techniques in 2006 and treatments initiated at that time. The effects on tree establishment have been reported. For the study the interaction of ground cover management system and nutrient source were studied with the interaction of treatments as follows. Ground cover management treatments were: 1) municipal green compost (GC), 2) mow-and-blow where the undertree and between row vegetation (primarily planted K31 tall fescue) is periodically mowed and blown under the trees (MB), 3) refuse wood chips (WC), and 4) shredded business paper (SP). The nutrient source treatments were: A) the ground cover provides all nutritional needs (NF), B) composted poultry litter (PL), and C) a certified organic pelletized poultry based fertilizer (CF). The PL and CF nutrient source treatments are applied each spring prior to budbreak based standard foliar [N] as sampled the previous season to be in the range of 1.9 - 2.4% N. After nutrition is applied, ground cover treatments are applied with mulches applied to a depth of 3-6cm. Beginning in the current season of this study, trees will begin to flower and produce a crop. Treatment effects on growth, cropping and economic performance of the orchard systems and make empirical observations of the basis for those outcomes. The incidence of pests and diseases in the organic system will be measured and observed. Soil quality and health will be assessed annually including measurements of soil biodiversity, soil physical properties, and soil chemical properties. From the findings of the study, information will be conveyed in traditional scientific formats (presentations and publications) as well as provided to constituencies through grower group meetings, annual conferences and workshops. Additionally, the orchard will serve as a vehicle for direct education through university classroom experiences and grower field days.
Animal Health Component
65%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
10%
Applied
65%
Developmental
25%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
1021110101010%
1026030301010%
2051110101060%
2130110101010%
2161110106010%
Knowledge Area
102 - Soil, Plant, Water, Nutrient Relationships; 205 - Plant Management Systems; 216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems; 213 - Weeds Affecting Plants;

Subject Of Investigation
1110 - Apple; 0110 - Soil; 6030 - The farm as an enterprise;

Field Of Science
1060 - Biology (whole systems); 1010 - Nutrition and metabolism; 3010 - Economics;
Goals / Objectives
Long-term goals and Objectives The long-term goal of this project is to test and develop effective organic fruit tree best management practices for the South with focused emphasis on ground cover and nutrient management. The specific objectives of this project are: 1. Conduct a controlled, replicated study to evaluate the effects of ground cover and nutrient management practices on soil chemical, physical and biological characteristics, plant health, growth and productivity, insect, disease and weed management, and orchard economic plans in order to develop locally-appropriate recommendations for organic fruit tree growers in the South 2. Conduct on-farm grower research in cooperation with UA trial 3. To develop an apprenticeship program to train the farm managers in organic production techniques utilizing developed commercial orchards and seasoned management expertise 4. Develop economic production and marketing budgets to determine feasible production methods 5. Develop an organic apple teaching module from research-generated results to incorporate into existing Extension Agent trainings and other agricultural advisors, and a multi-dimensional Extension program for growers, consultants, and other agriculture professionals.
Project Methods
The outcomes of this project will be: 1. Scientific evidence of the long-term effects of ground cover and nutrient management on soil chemistry, physical properties, and biology, and tree growth, yield and physiology 2. Recommendations for best management practices of organic orchard nutrition based upon scientific evidence, validated by practical grower experience. 3. Recommendations for ground cover management in organic orchards in the south 4. Development of economic operating and marketing budgets for organic orchards in the south 5. Trained organic orchard managers through on-farm trials and apprenticeships 6. Informed growers and Extension personnel on successful production practices of organic orchard management. An orchard was established in 2006 using Enterprise/M26 apples planted at 2m x 4m spacing (~600 trees/acre) and trained to a 2-wire minimal trellis system in a modified vertical axis, conical shaped tree to be 4m tall and 1.5m wide at the base. The orchard is managed organically and will be certified in 2008. The interaction of ground cover management system and nutrient source were studied. Ground cover management treatments were: 1) municipal green compost (GC), 2) mow-and-blow where the undertree and between row vegetation (primarily planted K31 tall fescue) is periodically mowed and blown under the trees (MB), 3) refuse wood chips (WC), and 4) shredded business paper (SP). The nutrient source treatments were: A) the ground cover provides all nutritional needs (NF), B) composted poultry litter (PL), and C) a certified organic pelletized poultry based fertilizer (CF). The PL and CF nutrient source treatments are applied each spring prior to budbreak based standard foliar [N] as sampled the previous season to be in the range of 1.9 - 2.4% N. After nutrition is applied, ground cover treatments are applied with mulches applied to a depth of 3-6cm. Tree growth, fruit yield, fruit quality will be measured. Economic inputs and crop value will be recorded and estimated, respectively. The nutrient status of the trees and soil within treatment zones will be monitored periodically during the season. The impact of treatments on the incidence of pests and diseases in the organic system will be measured and observed. Soil quality and health will be assessed annually including measurements of soil biodiversity, soil physical properties, and soil chemical properties. Outreach from the program will be conducted through formal classroom activities, growers workshops and field tours and development of organic production handbook. Project collaborators will attend and present this project at various other producer and scientific meetings and conferences. Information about the project will also be disseminated through the Fruit and Nut Extension newsletter and be made available through the UA Ecological Agriculture website (www.uark.edu/ua/uaecoag/).

Progress 09/01/08 to 08/31/13

Outputs
Target Audience: The target audience was multi-dimensional including organic fruit producers, conventional fruit producers, commercial fruit grower trade associations, hobbyists, extension workers, consultants, other scientists, students, garden and food writers, and consumers. The project was not targeted towards a specific racial or ethnic population, or any specific disadvantaged population. The project was focused on developing science-based information that would serve to provide sustainable fruit production systems that could also be certified organic through the USDA National Organic Program. Efforts to reach the audiences included presenting information at grower and trade groups, at regional, national, and international science meetings attended by consultants, extension workers and scientists, and teaching in university classrooms. Field days and tours were used for individual growers, consultants and extension workers, as well as for groups. The research planting was used extensively by university classes on horticulture, soil and environmental science, fruit production, and organic and sustainable production systems. The project utilized an apprentice who worked part-time on a cooperating grower farm and part time within the research project. The apprentice and apprentice program maintained a pest scouting website and farm-work journal. Results of the project have been published in grower trade group proceedings, as presentation abstracts, and as journal papers. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Trained apprentices, incorporated orchard into classroom educational activities for students, 3 PhD students , 2 MS students, 2 visiting scientists (China, Italy), 9 undergraduate employees. The orchard was used for several classes as served as a learning laboratory for students in horticulture and environmental, soil and water sciences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Project information and results were widely extended to various stakeholders and clientele groups through farm tours, workshops and conferences (regional, national, international). Two, day-long in-depth organic apple schools were held in conjunctions with the AR-OK Horticulture Industry Show in Fort Smith AR, January 2011 and January 2013. Additionally, presentations on the organic orchard project were delivered to growers at the Missouri Organic Conference (2013, 2014), Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group (2011, 2013). Scientific presentations have been delivered at annual conferences for the American Society of Horticulture Sciences, Soil Science Society of America, Entomological Society of America. Finally, a case study is being developed on the organic orchard for SSARE to share lessons learned and best practices with growers, extension agents and scientist. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1) Activities: Conducted and analyzed an 4 groundcovers x 3 organic nutrients in replicated study. Tree performance and growth, nutrient status, soil microbiology, chemical and physical characteristics and insect, disease and weed pest management were evaluated under treatments. Objectives met: The objective to determine the effects of ground cover management on tree growth and cropping, foliar nutrition, soil ecology, nutrient cycling competitive vegetation, and other aspects of orchard management was met. Results: Treatments delivered significant differences in nutrient quantity to the orchard. Compost (C) treatment applied nearly 20-times the amount of N recommended. Shredded paper (SP) and poultry litter treatments increased soil Na, thus pH to nearly alkaline levels. Trees treated with wood chips (WC) were the largest and trees receiving no supplemental nutrition were the smallest. Treatments affected leaf chlorophyll content and photosynthesis. Trees treated with wood chips (WC) had the highest estimated chlorophyll and photosynthesis and Mow Blow (MB) or SP the lowest. Yield was significantly reduced in the last 3 seasons due to weather extremes, resulting in minimal yields and no significant differences for yield. Ground cover treatments had a stronger effect on soil properties than fertilizers. At depth, ground cover or ground cover by year significantly effected enzyme activities. Compost resulted in the greatest increase in dissolved soil-extractable carbon, greatest increase in total organic matter and dissolved soil-extractable N pools. WC, C, and SP groundcovers enhanced the macrofaunal communities compared to MB. Push-pull tactic of Surround (push) combined with baited pyramid traps (pull) placed around the perimeter of the organic block reduced plum curculio damage and infestations to less than 42%. Codling moths and oriental fruit moths were managed with organic approved tactics resulting in less than 0.3% damage. San Jose scale was controlled with early applications of Pyganic and/or JMS Stylet Oil to reduce damage to less than 10%. Outcomes: A key outcome was to understand and determine best practices for managing under-tree competitive and supplying adequate nutrition. Compost application rate in this study supplied excessive N resulting in vigorous, nonproductive tree growth, late season N uptake, and early season weed suppression followed by strong competitive vegetation late-season. Shredded paper provided the best competitive vegetation control, though significantly increased soil pH. Wood chips resulted in adequate weed control through mid-season. Trees with no supplemental nutrition were smaller than average, had smaller than average leaves, lower physiological potential, and lowest cropping. Objective 2) Activities: On-farm research was conducted at two local orchards. Research at the first farm was discontinued in year 2 due to circumstances beyond the control of the project leaders. A second orchard was identified and used primarily for pest management studies, nutritional diagnosis, and apprentice training. Objectives met: An apprenticeship program was established and operated during the growing season. An upper level undergraduate student was placed in employment for the growing season working half-time with a cooperating grower and half-time with the replicated research trial. The student participated in application of treatments, pest scouting, data collection, daily orchard and farm management. Significant results: Cropping data with the first grower was not collected from trial trees. The second grower did not establish treatments but was used to studying and monitoring sustainable and organic pest control studies. Three upper-level undergraduate students participated in the apprenticeship program. Apprentices increased knowledge in on-farm applications of nutrient, pest and horticultural management practices. Outcomes: Growers participating in the study have indicated change in pest management strategies, including changing methods of competitive vegetation control, using alternative nutrient sources, and implementing high level IPM pest scouting systems. Growers understand importance of providing annual nutritional supplements and adequately managing competitive vegetation. Objective3. Activities: A user-friendly interactive decision support tool was developed in Microsoft Excel using VBA programming interfaces to simulate organic apple production in Arkansas and across the south. Objectives met: The objective to develop a decision support tool was met. Results: The first user friendly interactive decision support tool for organic apple production that encompasses budgeting, economics and risk components was developed. The purpose of this tool is: 1) to assist producers in the evaluation of costs, revenues and risks associated with their apple orchard and 2) to assess the changes to cost, revenue and risk as expected costs, revenue prices and/or yields change. This tool includes additional economic components that: 1) estimate the operation’s breakeven (price and yield) points, 2) conduct sensitivity analyzes (answering “What if” questions related to changes in costs and revenues), and 3) provide a risk assessment (regarding the probability of obtaining positive net returns during the life of the apple orchard). A copy of this tool and its accompanying user manual can be obtained by emailing jhpop@uark.edu. Outcomes: This tool can assist producers, educators and others in making economically sound assessments of production practices and decisions that can contribute to the growth of organic apple production acreage Arkansas and across the south. Objective 4) Major activities for this objective: Three apprentices were trained in organic orchard production methods, mentored by two local growers and co-PIs Rom and Johnson. Objectives met: The apprentices reported activities and skills acquired in 17 online issues of the Organic Apple Orchard Apprenticeship News from April 2010 to August 2012 (http://comp.uark.edu/~dtjohnso/). . Results: Two of three apprentices continue to work on other funded organic fruit production projects at the University of Arkansas, and/or with local growers. One student is graduating and seeking employment as a manager in an organic production system. The apprentices acquired stills to make organic orchard management decisions and to operate an organic and conventional, high-IPM orchard. Apprentices learned to use farm vehicles and equipment, determine fruit maturity status, to harvest and grade fruit. Outcomes: Three apprentices have increased knowledge, skills and abilities and hands-on experiences regarding management issues surrounding organic apple production. Objective 5) Develop a multi-disciplinary Extension education program. Activities: Project information was extended through farm tours, workshops and conferences. Two, day-long in-depth organic apple schools were held at the AR-OK Horticulture Industry Show in Fort Smith AR, January 2011 and January 2013. Presentations on the organic orchard project were delivered to growers at the Missouri Organic Conference (2013, 2014), Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group (2011, 2013) and within the scientific community at annual association conferences by project leaders (2009-2014). Objectives met: Participants increased their knowledge of organic tree performance and management (Rom), organic insect pest management (Johnson), the influence of organic practices on soil chemistry and biology (Savin) and a newly developed economic budget tool for organic apple production (Popp). Outcomes: Growers and extension specialists were trained on best practices for organic orchard management and alternatives for controlling competitive vegetation and supplying adequate nutrition, managing soil quality and health, and controlling pests.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Bough, R.A., C. R. Rom, and J. McAfee. 2011. Influence of Organic Mulches On Mycorrhizal Colonization of Apple Trees In An Organic Orchard. HortSci. 46(9): s257 [abst 342]. On-line at: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/suppl/2011/10/31/46.9.DC2/2011HS-Abstract-Supplement.pdf
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bough, R. and C. R. Rom. 2013 Influence of Organic Groundcovers on Mycorrhizal Colonization and Symbiosis of Organically Managed Fruit Crops. HortSci. http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/suppl/2013/10/17/48.9.DC1/HS-Sept_2013-Conference_Supplement.pdf (page 17)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Ford, J., M. Savin, C. Rom, and J. McAfee. 2013. Mineralization and nitrification in soil altered by ground cover and nutrient source in an organic apple orchard. In Annual Meetings Recordings and Abstracts. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, WI. Available at https://scisoc.confex.com/crops/2013am/webprogram/Paper79973.html
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnson, C., B. Smith, and M. Savin. 2012. Invertebrate abundances and diversity in surface litters of a six year old organic apple orchard in Northwest Arkansas. In Annual Meetings Recordings and Abstracts. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, WI. Available at http://scisoc.confex.com/scisoc/2012am/webprogram/Person347809.html [
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnson, D.T., Barbara Lewis, Curt Rom, Heather Friedrich, Rolfe Bryant and Maciej A. Pszczolkowski. 2008. Organic fruit production needs in the Southeastern United States and organic pest management practices tested in Arkansas. Proceedings of the Entom. Soc. Am., Reno, NV, http://esa.confex.com/esa/2008/webprogram/Paper38790.html
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Johnson, D., B. Lewis, C. Rom, H. Friedrich, R. Bryant, and M. Pszczolkowski. 2010. Organic fruit production needs and pest management practices in the Southeastern United States. Acta Hort. 873: 37-44.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnson, D.T., C.R. Roubos, T.W. Nyoike, L.L. Stelinski, and O.E. Liburd. 2013. Lures, mating disruption and mass trapping of grape root borer. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1001:129-137.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Rodr�guez, H.G., J. Popp, C.R. Rom, H. Friedrich, J. McAfee, and H. Myrteza. 2013. A new economic assessment tool for organic apple producers. Supplement to HortScience Volume 48(9):S357.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, M. Savin, J.H. Popp, J. McAfee, and H. Friedrich. 2012. Ground Cover Management and Nutrient Source Affect Soil and Foliar Nutrient Contents in an Organically Managed Apple Orchard in the Southern U.S. HortSci 49(7): S163 [abst]
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2010 Citation: Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, H.S. Choi, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2010. The effects of groundcover management and nutrient source during organic orchard establishment. Acta Hort. 873: 105-113.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2008 Citation: Rom, C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, H. Choi, M.E. Garcia, D. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2008. Early Performance During Establishment of an Organic Apple Orchard in the Upper Mid-south. HortSci 43 (3): 609 [abst]
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Rom,C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2011. Early Performance During the Establishment of An Organic Apple Orchard with Varied Ground Cover Management Treatments and Nutrient Sources. HortSci. 46(9): s256 [abst. 341) On-line at: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/suppl/2011/10/31/46.9.DC2/2011HS-Abstract-Supplement.pdf
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Savin, M. C., P. J. Tomlinson, C. Rom, H. Friedrich, and H. Choi. 2009. Differences in soil and tree responses to organic orchard fertilizer and ground cover management. In Annual Meetings Abstracts [CD-ROM]. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, WI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnson, D. 2013. Recent efforts in small farm IPM in Arkansas. Poster presentation to Southern Region Small Farm Working Group in IPM Meeting in Kissimmee, FL on August 2.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnson, D. and S. Kim. 2013. IPM considerations for organic fruit production: managing insect pests. pp. 95-97. In D. Collins (ed.), Proceedings Oklahoma/Arkansas Horticulture Industries Show Conference.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Johnson, D., S.H.S. Kim, B. Petty, C. Rom, D. Steinkraus, B. Lewis J. McAfee and H. Friedrich. 2011. Lessons in organic fruit pest management, pp. 41-47. In Proceedings of 30th Annual Oklahoma & Arkansas Horticulture Industries Show.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Rodriguez, H.G., J. Popp, C. Rom, H. Friedrich, J. McAfee. 2013. Development of an Economic Assessment Tool for Southern Organic Apple Production. Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group Annual Conference. January 23-26, Little Rock Arkansas
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Rodriguez, H.G., J. Popp, R. Ruffin, H. Friedrich, C. Rom. 2011. Organic apple production using interactive budgets. Selected Presentation at the 2011 Horticultural Industry Show. Fort Smith, AR. January 14-15.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Rom, C. 2013. Organic apple production, pp. 90-94. In D. Collins (ed.), Proceedings Oklahoma/Arkansas Horticulture Industries Show Conference.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R., M.E.Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, M. Savin, H. Friedrich, and J. McAfee. 2012. The effects of four ground cover management systems and three nutrient sources on the growth and performance of an organic apple orchard in the southern United States. International Symposium on Organic Fruit Production, International Society for Horticultural Sciences, Leavenworth, Wa. June 2012.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R. H. Friedrich and J. McAfee. 2012. Managing the Sustainable Orchard. Horticulture Industries Show. Tulsa, OK. Jan. 2012.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Ford, J. 2014. Nitrification and denitrification in soil altered by ground cover and nutrient source in an organic apple orchard, M.S. thesis, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2008 Citation: Rom, C.R. J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, H. Choi, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M.E. Garcia. 2008. The effects of ground cover management and nutrient source on establishment and early growth of an organic apple orchard. SARE National Conference
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Rom, C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2011. Management Practices for Organic Orchard Ground Cover and Nutrition. Presented at the Annual Conference of the Southern Sustainable Working Group. Chattanooga, TN.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Choi, H.S.2009.Effects of different organic apple production systems on seasonal variation of soil and foliar nutrient concentration, PhD thesis, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Mays, N. 2013. Groundcover management system and nutrient source impact physical soil quality indicators in an organically managed apple orchard. MS Thesis, University of Arkansas ISBN 9781303058325
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bough, Raven A. and Curt R. Rom. 2013. Influence of organic groundcovers on mycorrhizal colonization and symbiosis of organically managed fruit crops. Discovery The Student Journal of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food, and Life Sciences. 14: 3-11.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Rom, C. R. J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, D. Johnson, E. Garcia, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2011 Early Performance of an Organic Apple Orchard as affected by Nutrient Source and Ground Cover Management. In the Arkansas-Oklahoma Region. Proceedings of the 30th Arkansas-Oklahoma Horticulture Industries Show (CD-Rom, digital publication)
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnson, C., B. Smith, and M. C. Savin. 2012. Invertebrate abundances and diversity of a six year old organic apple orchard in Northwest Arkansas. Discovery The Student Journal of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food, and Life Sciences. 13:38-45.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2011 Citation: Savin, M. C. 2011. Soil management in perennial systems. 30th Annual Arkansas and Oklahoma Horticulture Industries Show, Fort Smith, AR, Jan 14 15.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Savin, M. C. 2013. The impacts of organic apple production practices on soil. 32nd Annual Horticulture Industries Show, Horticulture Production & Food Safety: Making Good During Tough Times. Fort Smith, AR, Jan. 11-12.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2008 Citation: Breaking New Ground for Organic Orchards. In Common Ground, SARE quarterly magazine. Oct. 2008. http://www.southernsare.uga.edu/commongrnd/08autumn.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2008 Citation: Scientists develop holistic approach for organic production. May 2008. http://arkansasagnews.uark.edu/2370.htm
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2009 Citation: Organic Fruit Production, In Research Frontiers, Fall, 2009. http://researchfrontiers.uark.edu/15685.php


Progress 09/01/11 to 08/31/12

Outputs
Target Audience: The target audience for this reporting period were diversified specialty crop producers and apple producers in the mid-South region. Additionally, scientists in the fields of horticulture, soil biology, entomology and agriculture economics were reached. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? These findings provide science and experience based information on organic orchard management to producers, to extension agents, to federal agency staff, to consultants and directly to growers.Presentations were made at state and regional grower meetings, an organic professional development in-service training for extension agents, at national horticulture meetings, and an international symposium on organic fruit production. The research orchard was toured several times by individual growers, and used for classes. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Presentations on the orchard project were made at state and regional grower meetings, an organic professional development in-service training for extension agents, at national horticulture meetings, and an international symposium on organic fruit production. The research orchard was toured several times by individual growers, and used for classes. The grower cooperator participated in a farm-to-school program providing fruit to a local school and tours for school children. Project leaders had numerous interactions with growers, extension workers, and consultants from around the region in relation to the project. A new university course was offered, “Applications of Sustainability” in which information, experiences and data from the study were presented. The research orchard was used in teaching 3 other courses including a course, Sustainable and Organic Horticulture Production. Through the project, undergraduate students have been hired to assist with orchard management, data collection, and data management giving students opportunities to learn organic production techniques. The project leader mentored an undergraduate honors student studying root and soil biological interactions in organic systems with the research occurring in the controlled study orchard as well as the on-farm trial orchard. The apprentice published a weekly blog of activities and observations. Several graduate students from horticulture, entomology, soil biology, and economics participated in the project and have thesis related to the project. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? After 7 cropping seasons, there was no significant difference in tree survival although trees with mow/blow ground cover management had the lowest survival, and those treated with compost as a ground cover management system had the highest. Similarly, trees receiving no supplemental nutrition had the lowest survival while those receiving either a formulated fertilizer or composted chicken litter had similar and highest survival. Cropping in this year was limited in all trials by high temperatures during the 2011 flower development season, unfavorable weather conditions during the bloom period limiting pollination, and by a post-bloom hailstorm. The 2012 growing season was typified as the hottest summer on record in the region leading to a high level of preharvest fruit drop for which there are no organic controls, sunburn and heat damage to the fruit. After 7 years, all trees have grown to fill their space and there were no significant differences in tree size as measured by trunk cross-sectional area, canopy height or spread, or calculated canopy volume. However, in all cases, trees with the mow/blow ground cover management system were the smallest. After the first 4 cropping seasons, trees treated with either compost or wood chips had the highest cumulative yield while trees with mow/blow were significantly less. However, there were no differences for ground cover treatments for cumulative yield efficiency, average fruit size, or fruit quality characteristics. Trees not receiving supplemental nutrition had the lowest yields compared to those receiving supplemental nutrition from a commercial fertilizer source or composted chicken litter. Since establishment, the all ground cover management systems have resulted in increased soil organic matter and reduced soil bulk density, and all were better than an adjacent conventionally managed orchard. Soil organic matter had increased three-fold since beginning the study and was more than twice as great as an adjacent, conventionally managed orchard. Compost and woodchip ground covers resulted in the lowest soil bulk density, and highest percentage of larger water stable aggregates. Compost resulted in higher plant available water and nutrient source had no effect on plant available water. Shredded paper ground cover resulted in the greatest water infiltration rates and the mow/blow treatments the lowest. Soil available nutrients measured by membrane probes indicated that compost ground cover had the highest available NO3-N at all sample periods during the growing season while shredded paper and mow/blow had the lowest. Composted poultry litter had the highest available NO3-N at all sample periods and no supplemental nutrition the lowest. There were no differences for any treatment for soil available NH4-N. There was a quadratic relationship between annual applied N from the treatments and tree trunk cross-sectional area and cumulative yield during the first 4 harvest seasons indicating that compost plus additional nutrients resulted in excessive tree growth and reduced cropping. Foliar nutrient contents of all treatments were in a normal or adequate range. However, trees treated with shredded paper or receiving no supplemental nutrition were in the very low range for adequate foliar N contents. Codling moth and Oriental fruit moths were monitored by pheromone traps set inside apple blocks. Plum curculio adults were monitored with black pyramid traps baited with plum essence and benzaldehyde and set along perimeter of apple blocks. A 100 terminal inspection detected presence of rosy apple aphids, green apple aphids. Emergence of San Jose scale crawlers were determined by wrapping double sticky tape traps around infested limbs. Demonstrated that several materials OMRI approved for organic production were effective in preventing pest damage of apples. Entrust (spinosad) was applied against first generation by codling moth and Oriental fruit moth. Ten days later the trees were sprayed with a mixture of Cyd-X (granulosis virus) against codling moth and Deliver (Bt) against Oriental fruit moth. Egg laying of the two summer generations of both species was minimized by placement of 200 Isomate CM/OFM pheromone ties per acre for mating disruption. Once pheromone traps begin catching these moths in late August (indication of Isomate pheromone depleted), these moths were managed with one spray of Entrust followed ten days later with a mixed spray of Cyd-X and Deliver. This management program has been followed since 2010, resulting in no spider mite outbreaks, and less than 0.2% of apples were damaged by either codling moth or Oriental fruit moth. Well-timed sprays of JMS Stylet Oil killed crawlers of San Jose scale (SJS) and rosy apple aphids. Maintaining a whitewashed appearance of apple trees with Surround WP kaolin clay (5 to 10 sprays per season) from petal fall to harvest minimized sun scald of apples and prevented plum curculio (PC) larval tunneling. However, whitewashing since 2009 allowed from 23 to 41% of the harvested apples to have surface feeding damage by plum curculio. In past years, Japanese beetles did not cause any significant apple foliar damage except during short periods when the whitewash of Surround was rained off. Two additional pests in 2012 were birds, and the summer fruit rots, black rot and bitter rot. Bird damage was significant although abatement programs of distraction were implemented with somewhat marginal results. The high level of damage was extraordinary and likely related to the high temperatures and prolonged and severe drought. Fruit rots were higher in all research orchards this year with severe heat and presumed high levels of initial infection from excessive rain the previous season. These results provide a basis for making horticultural recommendations for best practices for organic pest management for organic orchards in the southern region. An interactive organic apple production economic assessment tool was created and trialed in 2012. Sample costs for labor, materials, equipment and custom services are based on current figures gathered from this trial, with data gathered from the grower-cooperator, and in discussion with research team and the grower-cooperator. The practices described are based on production procedures considered typical for northwest Arkansas. Information was placed into Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to make the budget interactive. The tool is in a beta-test and when completed will be available as an interactive web-based tool, or a downloadable form. The tool will allow growers to do “if-what” scenarios for budget predictions.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2012 Citation: Mays, N., C. R. Rom, M. Savin, K. Brye, J. McAfee. 2012. Ground Cover Management and Nutrient Source Increase Soil Carbon Sequestration in an Organically Managed Orchard. HortSci 49(7): S161 [abst]
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R. H. Friedrich and J. McAfee. 2012. Managing the Sustainable Orchard. Horticulture Industries Show. Tulsa, OK. Jan. 2012. Invited presentation
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R., M.E.Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, M. Savin, H. Friedrich, and J. McAfee. 2012. The effects of four ground cover management systems and three nutrient sources on the growth and performance of an organic apple orchard in the southern United States. International Symposium on Organic Fruit Production, International Society for Horticultural Sciences, Leavenworth, Wa. June 2012. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc09YmGxh1U&list=PLE816E610DF986E58&index=21 -Abstract was published in preconference program and on the web; http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pages/organicfruit2012/Scientific_Program
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2012 Citation: Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, M. Savin, J.H. Popp, J. McAfee, and H. Friedrich. 2012. Ground Cover Management and Nutrient Source Affect Soil and Foliar Nutrient Contents in an Organically Managed Apple Orchard in the Southern U.S. HortSci 49(7): S163 [abst]


Progress 09/01/10 to 08/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities: The primary goal and activity of this project were to study and manage a developing organic apple orchard with replicated studies of the effects of ground cover management systems and nutrient sources. 2011 was the 6th growing season of the orchard. Cropping in this year was limited by unfavorable weather conditions during the post-bloom period when 26.8 inches of rain in 25 of the 35 days following bloom. Measurements of soil biology, soil fertility and health, tree growth and cropping, and pest occurrence were collected. A second goal was to establish on-farm trials with a commercial grower's orchard. This was initiated this year with both data collected from the grower as well as extensive consulting. A third project goal was to establish an apprentice for the project on the commercial grower's orchard contributing to orchard management and data collection. A project co-investigator and the orchard operator served as a mentor to the apprentice. The fourth project goal was develop economic analyses of the orchard. Data on all activities, inputs and outputs of the orchard were recorded and a preliminary management budget for the orchard establishment period has been constructed. The fifth project goal was to extend information to growers through workshop, extension meetings, and grower meetings. Information was disseminated in multiple ways, in varied venues and to multiple audiences including users and consumers. Presentations on the orchard project were made at state and regional grower meetings as well as an organic professional development in-service training for extension agents attended by more than 50 persons. Additionally, the orchard was toured several times by individual growers, and used for classes. Project leaders had numerous interactions with growers, extension workers, and consultants from around the region in relation to the project. A new university course was offered, "Applications of Sustainability" in which information, experiences and data from the study were presented. The research orchard was used in teaching 3 other courses. Through the project, undergraduate students have been hired to assist with orchard management, data collection, and data management giving students opportunities to learn organic production techniques. The project leader is mentoring an undergraduate honors student studying root and soil biological interactions in organic systems. Events: A professional development program workshop attended by more than 50 cooperative extension service agents, NRCS staff, and university staff and faculty was conducted and considerations for organic crop management was presented. Presentations on the orchard were made at a regional horticulture grower meetings and regional and national scientific meetings. Services: Consulting was provided to three farms in organic transition for organic pest management, competitive vegetation management. Additional consulting and counseling regarding organic fruit management was provided via phone to several stakeholders. Products: A website was developed: - http://www.uark.edu/ua/uaecoag/. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
These findings provide information on orchard management to producers, to extension agents, to federal agency staff, and to consultants. The information is directly applicable to organic producers but as the information is cross-translatable to sustainable and conventional growers. Direct outputs include; Information and technology for alternative weed control methods; Information and technology for alternative fertilization sources; Information and technology for alternative pest management; Information and technology for organic production systems; Implementing new technologies and recommendations with local growers; Developing new expertise and future farmers with the apprentice program; Providing new information and technology to extension agents, federal agency staff, and consultants on orchard operations and organic management. The impacts will be improved methods of production with fewer synthetic inputs and fewer environmental impacts; a stimulation of the local fruit industries of the southeast region; increased local and regional food supplies of high value products. The project is evaluated annually by project leaders and measured against project goals. The resources provided in this project have paid for supplies and equipment, and labor necessary to manage an organic orchard; for travel to workshops, conference and meetings to disseminate information; for graduate students who are conducting fundamental science related to the project; for an apprentice who is learning techniques for organic crop production; and to engage a grower directly in the project.

Publications

  • Choi, Hyun-Sug, C. R. Rom, and M. Gu. 2011. Plant Performance, and Seasonal Soil and Foliar Nutrient Variations in an Organic Apple Orchard under Four Ground Cover Management Systems. J. Amer. Pom. Soc. 65(3): 66-82. Choi, Hyun-Sug and C. R. Rom. 2011 Effects of Ground Cover Treatments on Growth and Photosynthesis in Young 'Enterprise' Apple Trees. J. Amer. Pom. Soc. 65(3): 83-93.
  • Choi, Hyun-Sug and C. R. Rom. 2011. Effects of Organic Apple Production Systems on Foliar Macronutrient Concentrations (accepted for publication in Proceedings of IFOAM/ISOFAR Organic Congress, 2011, Seoul, Korea). Rom,C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2011. Early Performance During the Establishment of An Organic Apple Orchard with Varied Ground Cover Management Treatments and Nutrient Sources. HortSci. 46(9): s256 [abst. 341) On-line at: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/suppl/2011/10/31/46.9.DC2 /2011HS-Abstract-Supplement.pdf.
  • Bough, R.A., C. R. Rom, and J. McAfee. 2011. Influence of Organic Mulches On Mycorrhizal Colonization of Apple Trees In An Organic Orchard. HortSci. 46(9): s257 [abst 342]. On-line at: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/suppl/2011/10/31/46.9.DC2 /2011HS-Abstract-Supplement.pdf
  • Rodriguez, G. J. Popp, R. Ruffin, H. Friedrich and C. Rom. 2011. Organic Apple Production Using Interactive Budgets. Selected presentation at the Horticultural Industry Show. Fort Smith, AR. Jan 14-15.
  • Johnson, D.T. 2011. Using biological control and other organic pest management tactics. Invited speaker to 40 growers at the Mississippi Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference in Vicksburg, MS on 16 November.
  • Johnson, D., S. Kim, B. Lewis, C. Vincent, C. Rom, and E. Garcia. 2011. Improving pest management for fruits in the Ozark mountain region. Invited talk at the SEB-ESA Meeting in Puerto Rico on 22 March.
  • Rom, C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, and B. Lewis. 2011. Progress and Challenges for Organic Fruit Production in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Presented at the Arkansas-Oklahoma Horticulture Industries Show. Invited presentation.
  • Rom, C.R. 2011 Sustainable and Organic Fruit Production in the Southern Region. Presented at the Annual Conference of the Southern Sustainable Working Group. Chattanooga, TN. Invited presentation.
  • Rom, C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2011. Management Practices for Organic Orchard Ground Cover and Nutrition. Presented at the Annual Conference of the Southern Sustainable Working Group. Chattanooga, TN. Invited presentation.
  • Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, D. T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2011. Developing Organic Production Systems for Arkansas and the Upper Mid-South. Presented at the USDA-NIFA OREI Project Leaders Conference, Washington, D.C. Invited presentation.
  • Rom, C.R. 2011. Tree Fruit Propagation; Rules and Techniques. Missouri Organic Growers Association. Springfield, MO. Invited presentation. Rom, C.R. 2011. Primer on Sustainable and Organic Fruit Production: You are the Experts. Presented to the NCCC212 Annual Conference. Fayetteville, AR. Invited Presentation.
  • Rom, C.R. 2011. The Organic System. Presented at the UA-CES, SARE In-Service Training Workshop on Organic Production. Little Rock, AR. Invited Presentation.
  • Rom, C. R., D.T. Johnson, J. McAfee, J. McKern, E. Stafne, J. R. Clarke. 2010 Differences in Defoliation of Fruit Genotypes by Adult Japanese Beetle Feeding. Jrnl. Amer. Pom. Soc. 64(4): 186-198.
  • Rom, C., E. Garcia, D. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2011. Best Management Practices for Organic Apple Production. Poster presented at the USDA Organic Farming Systems Research Conference. Washington DC March 16-18.
  • Choi, Hyun-Sug and C. R. Rom 2011. Estimated nitrogen use efficiency, surplus, and partitioning in young apple trees grown in varied organic production systems. Sci. Hort. 129 (4): 674-679.


Progress 09/01/09 to 08/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities The primary goal and activity of this project were to manage a developing organic apple orchard with replicated studies of the effects of ground cover management systems and nutrient sources. 2010 was the 5th growing season of the orchard. Cropping in this year was limited by unfavorable weather conditions during the post-bloom period, summer, and early autum. Measurements of soil biology, soil fertility and health, tree growth and cropping, and pest occurrence were collected. A second goal was to establish on-farm trials with a commercial grower's orchard transitioning to organic. This was initiated this year with both data collected from the grower as well as extensive consulting. A third project goal was to establish an apprentice for the project on the commercial grower's orchard contributing to orchard management and data collection. A project co-investigator and the orchard operator served as a mentor to the apprentice. The fourth project goal was develop economic analyses of the orchard. Data on all activities, inputs and outputs of the orchard were recorded and a preliminary management budget for the orchard establishment period has been constructed. The fifth project goal was to extend information to growers through workshop, extension meetings, and grower meetings. Presentations on the orchard project were made at state and regional grower meetings as well as an organic production field day which included a site tour by more than 60 persons. Additionally, the orchard was toured several times by individual growers, was featured on a television report on orcharding in the region, and used for classes. Project leaders had numerous interactions with growers, extension workers, and consultants from around the region in relation to the project. A new university course was offered, "Sustainable and Organic Horticulture" in which information and data from the study were presented. The research orchard was used in teaching 3 other courses. Consulting related to organic transition was done at two additional farms. Through the project, undergraduate students have been hired to assist with orchard management, data collection, and data management giving students opportunities to learn organic production techniques. The project leader is mentoring an undergraduate honors student studying root and soil biological interactions in organic systems with the research occurring in the controlled study orchard as well as the on-farm trial orchard. Events A workshop attended by 65 growers, extension agents, NRCS staff and university staff and faculty was conducted and considerations for organic fruit crop management was presented. Presentations on the orchard were made at a regional horticulture grower meeting. Services Consulting was provided to three farms in organic transition for organic pest management, competitive vegetation management. Additional consulting and counseling regarding organic fruit management was provided via phone to several stakeholders. Products A website was developed: - http://www.uark.edu/ua/uaecoag/. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals: Curt R. Rom, Professor of Horticulture, Principal investigator and project leader. Co-PI Donn Johnson, Professor of Entomology Elena Garcia, Professor of Horticulture Extension Mary Savin, Associate Professor of Crops, Soils, and Environmental Sciences Jennie Popp, Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness John Aselange, owner A&A Orchards - grower/collaborator Stephen Steward, organic apprentice Training and Professional Development: Training for growers, extension workers and consultants were provided during workshops held in conjunction with the Oklahoma-Arkansas Horticultural Industries Show, Tulsa, OK, and a field day on organic and alternative production systems which occurred on the University of Arkansas Experiment Station Main Farm. Results from the orchard studies were presented and field tours of the replicaed trial were conducted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The three primary target audiences are fruit growers and potential fruit growers interested in producing crops organically, extension agents, specialists and consultants who extend information to stakeholders and clientele and provide expert services to local growers, and students studying organic horticulture at the university. The project is designed to provide both fundamental and applicable knowledge of organic orchard systems in the southern region as well as demonstrate techniques used for organic production in the region. Although the project is focused on organic production, it is noted that many of the techniques and operations of an organic orchard are being adopted by conventional growers as a means of more sustainably managing their farms. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Although the project is relatively new, at least two growers are simultaneously transitioning from conventional to organic production systems. Our group is interacting with a third grower who will consider beginning transition this coming year. The most notable impact is that although many growers are not converting to organic at this time, they are adopting some technologies that we have demonstrated as being useful for the control of pests and diseases, providing tree nutrition, managing under-tree competitive vegetation, and used in crop load management. These impacts are reducing grower reliance on conventional pesticides and fertilizers and thereby reducing those environmental impacts. Because organic production in this region is new and technologies are unproven, we are observing a very slow adoption of techniques which may lead to organic transition in the future. Although the project is young it is providing useful information that has been published both in scientific journals as well as published in grower publications.

Publications

  • Johnson, D., B. Lewis, C. Rom, H. Friedrich, R. Bryant, and M. Pszczolkowski. 2010. Organic fruit production needs and pest management practices in the Southeastern United States. Acta Hort. 873: 37-44
  • Garcia, M.E., R. Moran, T.L. Bradshaw, L.P. Berkett, S.L. Kingsley-Richards, and M.L. Cromwell. 2010. Using new alternatives to enhance adoption of organic apple production. Acta Hort. 873: 277-283
  • Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, H.S. Choi, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp and M. Savin. 2010. The effects of groundcover management and nutrient source during organic orchard establishment. Acta Hort. 873: 105-113
  • Rom, C.R., J. McAfee, H. Friedrich, D. Johnson, E. Garcia, and J. Popp. 2010. Early performance of an organic apple orchard as affected by nutrient source and ground cover management. Proceedings OK & AR Horticulture Industries Show 29:80-83.


Progress 09/01/08 to 08/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This was the first year of the project. Results of the project have been disseminated to various communities of interest through several means including presentations to local, regional, national and international grower audiences at conferences, training schools, or trade association meetings, to peer scientists, extension workers and educators at scientific meetings, to students at the university through classroom laboratory tours and activities, and to the general public through public media channels. These forms of dissemination will be continued throughout the entire life of the project. A partial planning budget for organic orchards in the mid-south region was produced. The budget is in software spreadsheet format and allows grower interaction and inputs. The budget is currently available on the website of the co-PI (Popp) and is in review for publication. PARTICIPANTS: Project Director: Curt Rom, Professor, Dept of Horticulture, 316 PTSC, Fayetteville AR 72701, crom@uark.edu Co-Project Directors: Elena Garcia, Associate Professor, Extension Fruit Specialist, Dept of Horticulture, 316 PTSC, Fayetteville AR 72701, megarcia@uark.edu; Donn Johnson, Professor Dept of Entomology, 311 AGRI, Fayetteville AR 72701, dtjohnso@uark.edu; Jennie Popp, Associate Professor, Dept of Agribusiness & Ag Economics, AGRI 217, Fayetteville AR 72701, jhpopp@uark.edu; Mary Savin, Associate Professor, Dept of Crop, Soils and Environmental Science, AGRI 105B Fayetteville AR 72701 msavin@uark.edu Training Opportunities College Classes: University of Arkansas, Principles of Horticulture Science, Laboratory; Dept of Horticulture University of Arkansas, Fruit Crops Science, Laboratory; Dept of Horticulture University of Arkansas, Integrated Pest Management; Dept of Entomology University of Arkansas, Organic Crop Production; Dept of Crop Sciences University of Arkansas, Student Organic Farm, Student/Faculty Organization Student Training Students were trained in this project including 1 in horticulture, 1 in entomology, and 2 in soil biology Training Sessions Integrated Pest Management Training Workshop for Commercial Market Gardeners - 3 workshops in Arkansas. Conducted by M. E. Garcia (Co-PI) and H. Friedrich (Project Technician) Building Organic Agriculture Extension Training Capacity in the Southeast. - 2 day training for Extension agents in AR, AL, NC, SC. Conducted by M. E. Garcia (Co-PI) and H. Friedrich (Project Technician) TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target audiences for this project were first growers/producers, and second extension specialists and consultants. The information generated in the project is aimed at sustaining and increasing organic fruit production in the region through extension activities and grower production. A secondary target audience would be peer scientists and extension specialists working in the area of organic fruit production. The results and experiences of this project contribute to the general body of knowledge of organic fruit science. A third target audience was students, staff and faculty of the university. The organic research orchard was used for classroom demonstrations and learning activities. The Student Organic Farm student organization on campus had workshops in the orchard, helped in some data collection, and used fruit produced in the orchard. The fourth target audience of the project is the general public. The nonprofit agriculture education group, AppleSeeds used the orchard for an elementary school field trip learning experience. The orchard has been featured in general media including print media and television. The university featured the organic orchard in its lay research publication "Research Frontiers" (fall 2009) and on its outreach website (http://researchfrontiers.uark.edu/15685.php and http://researchfrontiers.uark.edu/15696.php). Project activities and information was shared through four media releases to the general public from the Division of Agriculture Media Relations department. Media releases posted on the Division website resulted in more than 200 release downloads. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: The project had to be modified due to the budget constraints in the award. The primary budget change was to reduce grower cooperators from two to one grower cooperator for the project. Because of a general crop failure due to frost and poor fruit set in the first project year (spring 2008), a grower cooperator could not participate in the project. Therefore, there was no activity in this portion of the project and a grower's apprentice was not used. Likewise, treatments on a grower location were not implemented at the grower's discretion. It is intended to be completed in the second year of the study.

Impacts
The resources of this project were used to provide orchard maintenance and operations needs, for labor including technical assistance and university student/trainee hourly labor, instrumentation use and operation, and for analytical services of soil and foliar nutrition, and soil biology. The ground cover management treatments resulted in differences in tree size with trees grown with wood chip or compost mulches being >80% larger than trees with either mow-and-blow or shredded paper mulch. Similar to tree size, trees with woodchip or compost mulch had >70% more flowers during bloom and greater fruit set than other ground cover treatments. Trees with no added nutrient source were smaller than those receiving either composted poultry litter or certified commercial organic fertilizers. Likewise, trees with no added nutrients had fewer flowers and less fruit set. However, because of bloom-time frost, all trees had minimal crops and there were no treatment difference for yield, fruit size or fruit quality. The cumulative yields over the first two seasons were greatest in the mow-and-blow and wood chip mulch treatments and least in the compost mulch system. Trees grown with no additional nutrient sources had <45% of the cumulative yield compared to either poultry litter or commercial fertilizers. Initial results suggest that ground covers seem to impact soil microbial community size (biomass) and biological activity (enzyme activities) differently than dissolved nutrients. Transitioning orchard soil to organic management practices may have different initial responses than tree growth indicates and the effects on soil health may not be completely manifest in the trees for several years as the system stabilizes and trees achieve their final size. As this was the first year of a multi-year project, and because of the nature of a newly established orchard, there were no measurable impacts in the first year. The orchard has been used for class instruction, and grower outreach educational activities including pruning and pest management demonstrations. The findings of this year's growth, cropping, pest management, and soil nutrition and biology studies will be presented to grower meetings in the coming calendar year.

Publications

  • Choi, H.S. 2009. Effects of different organic apple production systems on seasonal variation of soil and foliar nutrient concentration. Ph.D. Dissertation. University of Arkansas. 175 pages.
  • Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, M. Savin, J. McAfee and H. Friedrich. 2009. The effects of groundcover management and nutrient source during organic orchard establishment. Acta Hort. (accepted/pending publication)
  • Rom, C.R. 2009. Understanding and assessing sustainability in horticulture: Use of life cycle assessment to study and improve horticulture sustainability. HortScience 44(4):970 (abst)
  • Rom, C.R., M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2009. Early performance of an organic apple orchard as affected by ground cover management and nutrient sources. HortScience 44(4):10801-1082 (abst)
  • Garcia, M.E., H.F. Friedrich, and C.R. Rom. 2009. Expanding sustainable and organic training opportunities in Arkansas. HortScience 44(4):1152 (abst)
  • McAfee, J., C.R. Rom, H. Friedrich, H. Choi, M.E. Garcia, D.T. Johnson, J. Popp, and M. Savin. 2009. Ground cover management and nutrient source affect weed density, vole damage, and survival during establishment of an organic apple orchard. HortScience 44(4):1114 (abst)
  • Choi, H.S., and C.R. Rom. 2009. Estimated nitrogen balance of young apple trees grown in response to various organic apple production systems. HortScience 44(4):1113 (abst)
  • Savin, M.C., P. Tomlinson, C. Rom, H. Friedrich, and H. Choi. 2009. Difference in soil and tree responses to organic orchard fertilizer and ground cover management. In Annual Meetings Abstracts (CD-Rom). ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, WI.