The objective of this research is to evaluate advanced wheat breeding lines in organic systems for potential variety release to farmers in the Palouse region of Washington State. In 2012, two market classes in particular were evaluated: soft white winter wheat and winter spelt. The 2011-2012 field trials provided yield and test weight data for […]
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 […]
This research addresses primary constraints on organic dryland grain production in Eastern Washington by developing conservation tillage practices for organic systems, N supply data for grain crops after forages, methods of establishing organic crops, alternative forages, and economic comparisons of mixed crop-livestock systems versus other alternatives. Integration of crops with livestock provides nutrient cycling, and […]
The objective of this proposed research was to determine the relationship between agroecological factors (including climatic conditions, soil characteristics and wheat variety) and value-added traits (including nutritional content, yield in organic systems and baking quality) for wheat in Washington State. Using this information, we will develop agronomic strategies and value-added marketing options that focus on […]
Weed management in new wine grape vineyards was identified as the primary constraint to organic production in the region. This project investigates weed management options for establishing an organic wine grape vineyard and includes 5 treatments: standard weed control of rototilling and mowing, the Wonder Weeder, and three grain/legume cover crop treatments. Local growers and […]
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 […]
Two on-farm trials were established in 2008 to test different approaches to growing nitrogen within an orchard. The trial at Warren Morgan Orchard (WMO) compared four perennial legume species (ladino white clover, alfalfa, birdsfoot trefoil, kura clover) direct seeded into the existing alley vegetation with or without suppression. All species were successfully established, with better […]
This project identifies key Pythium pathogens and tests organic seed treatments to reduce damping-off in early-season peas.