FREP Website Resources
Author Archives: Nicole Nunes
Recap: The 2019 FREP/WPHA Nutrient Management Conference
The 27th annual Fertilizer Research and Education Program (FREP) and Western Plant Health Association (WPHA) Conference took place in Fresno, California, on October 28-30, 2019. Speakers from industry, academia and agricultural consulting provided pioneering information on nutrient and irrigation management in California agriculture. Below you will find highlights of some of the talks at this year’s conference. The PowerPoint presentations …
Updated Fertigation Book
In California agriculture, there has been a gradual shift from gravity-fed irrigation to pressurized systems including micro-irrigation. Micro-irrigation systems have been implemented in over 60% of irrigated acreage in California and support a more intensively managed production system. The use of pressurized irrigation systems has made significant advancements possible, including more precise delivery of chemicals and nutrients to crops. Chemigation …
Developing Nutrient Budget in Citrus Groves
Research Update: Developing Nutrient Budget and Early Spring Nutrient Prediction Model for Nutrient Management in Citrus Project leaders: Patrick Brown and Douglas Amaral Project location: Fresno, Tulare and Ventura Counties Year of study: 2 of 3 Overview: Leaf analysis with critical value* interpretation is a common practice for determining nutrient applications in citrus. However, this practice can lead to over-application …
Research Update: Examining the Capabilities of Biochar to Adsorb Ammonium
Project Title: Soil Biochar Amendment to Improve Nitrogen and Water Management Project Leader: Suduan Gao, Research Soil Scientist, USDA-ARS Project Location: San Joaquin Valley Year of Study: Two of three Overview: The goal of this study is to determine the overall benefits and best practices associated with the use of biochar, as a soil amendment, in vegetable crop production systems. …
Role of Mineralization in Farming
California growers have taken on an important role in their state’s broader efforts on climate change, including responding to regulatory requirements to improve their nitrogen (N) use efficiency and reduce their environmental impact. To meet these regulations, while maintaining crop yield and quality, growers must consider all potential N sources, including organic amendments and irrigation water. It is essential that …
Approaching Research Data and Trials
The agriculture industry is continuously advancing and investing in new technologies and products, making it important to take a thoughtful and informed approach to planning and decision making. The following is a list of considerations to reference the next time you are looking at research results: 1. Data: If you are considering a new product or practice, do not be …