Blue Diamond Growers Crop Progress Update Report for April
Several storm events during the period dropped significant amounts of rainfall over the orchards, with precipitation totals for the month ranging from ½ to 1 inch from Fresno County south. Growers also endured several windy days that knocked nuts from the trees, broke branches and blew over a few trees.
Observers are reporting that the 2017 crop is developing well. Nuts are now fully sized, with the most advanced examples of the Nonpareil now beginning to show the first signs of solidification. Trees in all areas of the state have been shedding unfertilized nuts and those that they are unable to carry to maturity. However, this normal process has been a bit aggravated by the winds experienced during the month. Many have reported lush tree growth this year as the orchards take advantage of the mild temperatures. However, growers throughout the Central Valley have reported that the extended period of saturated soils during the winter and spring has resulted in weakened and dying trees. The repeated heavy rains experienced this year have promoted phytophthora root rot infections in many areas. As temperatures rise and water requirements increase, the dying roots of the infected trees are unable to draw water from the soil, resulting in weakened or dead trees. The continuing rain has inspired growers in the Sacramento and northern San Joaquin Valley’s to begin treatments to prevent Scab and Rust. These fungal infections can defoliate trees later in the season. However, the only effective method of control is through preventative treatments made prior to the appearance of the disease.