Horton, D.

David Horton

Quantifying biological control of pear psylla in a cover crop system

SUMMARY Effects of an alfalfa cover crop on biological control of pear psylla and tree nutrition was assessed. The bullet points below summarize findings. Experimental Orchard (Moxee) • substantial increase in predator densities on orchard floor associated with alfalfa cover crop • no correlative effect on predator numbers in trees • no effects of cover […]

Assessing effects of an alfalfa cover crop on biological control and tree nutrition in organic pear orchards

Organic pear growers must balance the conflicting pressures between nitrogen levels and densities of pear psylla, a nitrogen-loving pest of pears. We are assessing in 3 certified organic orchards and 1 experimental orchard whether planting of alfalfa leads to improved tree nutrition and biological control of psylla. Alfalfa was planted in 2 ft wide strips […]