ENGLISH WALNUT, JUGLANS REGIA, PRODUCTION ON MARGINAL SOIL IN CALIFORNIA

Since 1986 a replicated field study has been conducted in Arbuckle, California USA. at the Nickels Soil Laboratory in the Central Valley to investigate a walnut production system for marginal soil conditions. Components of this study include; rootstocks, cultivars and soil modification. Twelve years of evaluation has concluded that 1) Yields of 6700 kg/ha (in shell) are attainable under these marginal conditions, 2) high quality kernels are produced, and 3) Slip plowing has not improved tree growth, yield or kernel quality. Results were obtained using precision management ie. yearly, alternate side, mechanical hedging, frequent and timely application of irrigation water to meet Et on a 2-5 day basis, and frequent fertigation of nutrients. Commercialization of this production system may require similar inputs.

IV International Walnut Symposium

J.P. Edstrom, B.H. Krueger, W.O. Reil

english walnut, Juglans regia L., orchard management, varieties, rootstocks, marginal soils.

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2001.544.61