May/June 2024 - 17

PEST MANAGEMENT
and growers will reduce the amount of damage. "
He noted that by implementing these control methods
along with effective season-long monitoring of pests, growers
and pest control advisers can understand the pest pressure
in orchards, thereby mitigating damage caused by pests like
NOW, Carpophilus beetle and BMSB.
For growers considering insecticide use, Rijal
recommended a strategic approach.
" Along with other practices, one to two well-timed
applications during hull split, based on monitoring data, can
provide good control of NOW, " he advised.
In addition, mating disruption is a " green " technology
with little or no impact on the environment and a proven
method to reduce NOW damage when integrated with other
practices. Implementing these multiple practices mentioned
above can help achieve long-term management of NOW.
Additionally, ABC, Rijal and his UC colleagues are
promoting NOW mating disruption tools and are fostering
grower-to-grower communication and relationship to
implement these innovative strategies in a more impactful
way with a neighborhood (or areawide) approach.
" Use of mating disruption in the early part of the
season, " Rijal recommended. His published work, tinyurl.
com/28749vc8, detailed how if mating disruption is
integrated into production practices, it can reduce the
damage by about 50%.
" I was surprised at how much
pressure theses insects are causing.
And it is the first season that we are
dealing with this pest. As Extension
personnel, we are definitely nervous
about this pest. "
Jhalendra P. Rijal
For brown spot caused by stink bugs and leaf-footed bugs,
depending on the time of the year and the pest population,
insecticide applications may be warranted. The dilemma
faced by growers is that broad-based insecticides can kill
beneficials as well.
As the nut growing season progresses, Rijal's expertise
can assist growers navigating the complex landscape of
pest management. By integrating sustainable practices and
fostering collaboration, growers can safeguard orchards while
ensuring environmental stewardship.
NATIONALNUTGROWER.COM 17
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May/June 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of May/June 2024
