May/June 2024 - 8

PEST & DISEASE
2024 Pest and Disease
Survey Report
Growers provide insight into most pressing challenges
BY DEBBIE EISELE
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
ree nut growers across the nation are prepared
to tackle another season that may be filled with
challenges from pests and diseases. A recent survey
conducted by National Nut Grower shed light on the most
prevalent issues, concerns and the type of support being
sought to combat these hurdles.
T
Crops challenges
Almonds, pecans, pistachios and walnuts are among the
primary crops grown by respondents. However, a notable
diversity in crops was also observed among survey participants,
with some growers also cultivating melons and other varieties.
When asked about the most significant pest challenges in
recent years, a myriad of issues emerged.
Among the surveyed growers, 78% reported challenges
with birds, which can cause significant damage to nut crops.
Aphids was noted as a persistent problem in orchards by 61%
of participants. The notorious navel orangeworm (NOW) stood
out as a primary concern due to its potential devastation by
57% of respondents. Additional challenges included mites (13%)
and various beetles (26%).
Disease management is also a significant concern for tree nut
growers. Over the past couple of years, they have been affected
by a range of diseases. Trunk diseases, including phytophthora,
were reported by 19% of respondents. Scab was identified by
14% of growers as another concern.
Bacterial blast, affecting 9% of orchards, Botryosphaeria, a
concern for 9% of growers, Phytophthora root rot, crown gall
and various cankers were also mentioned by survey participants.
As 2024 continues, growers noted they anticipate continued
challenges from diseases including phytophthora, which
remains a concern with reports of new infections already
emerging, noted by 5% of respondents; for scab, 5% expressed
concerns about its impact on their orchards; and brown rot,
rust and alternaria were also cited as potential threats.
8 MAY/JUNE 2024
Support and solutions needed
Growers voiced that they need comprehensive support
and information to combat these challenges. They expressed
a desire for the latest research, management techniques and
tools to effectively address pest issues. Additionally, there is
a growing demand for organic alternatives to conventional
pesticides, reflecting an industry-wide push towards
sustainable practices.
" Any new solutions that might use less harmful pesticides, "
said one survey participant.
Concerns about disease management were echoed by a
grower who stated: " Trunk diseases, namely phytophthora new
treatments, management techniques or chemicals to control or
eradicate the disease. "
In addressing disease concerns, growers shared
that they seek information on a range of topics, from
fungicide trials to control measures. They expressed a
desire for updated research, effective treatments and
guidance on best practices. Additionally, there is a call
for greater awareness and support in combating diseases
like phytophthora and scab.
As tree nut growers gear up for the challenges of the
2024 season, collaboration, innovation and access to
timely information will be key. By addressing the concerns
highlighted in the survey and providing comprehensive
support, the industry can work together towards sustainable
pest and disease management practices.
2024 grower concerns
Many growers expressed continued worries about familiar
foes. Birds, aphids and NOW remained at the top of the list,
with 67%, 57% and 52% of respondents respectively expressing
concern about these pests. Growers also said they anticipate
challenges from pests like Japanese beetles (17%), mealybugs
(9%), and leaffooted plant bugs (9%).
May/June 2024

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