Fungicides differ from other pesticides. Most insecticides and some herbicides ‘knock down’ pests, but fungicides work best when applied before pests appear. Almost all fungicides are developed to protect healthy plants from a pest pathogen before infections occur. Most fungicides are classified as protectants. Strength of Your Fungicides Read about: BelleWood Acres’ Holistic Approach to Apple Management … Read more
To understand the principles that John and Dorie Belisle have devised and applied over 20-plus years of apple farming, consider a phrase familiar to many agriculturalists: integrated pest management (IPM). Apple Management Read about: 3 Lingering Issues with Produce Safety Rule IPM refers to a holistic approach to pest management – an information-based strategy of constant monitoring, … Read more
Finding the right equipment makes the job easier, is cost-effective and allows efficient and effective use of time and labor. To solve the equipment puzzle, ask yourself, “What do I need, how large do I need it, and is it a good fit for my farm?” Equipment needs can run from the basic – think … Read more
Safety should always be a top priority no matter the type of equipment you’re using on the farm. Many, if not most, incidents are preventable. Here is a quick guide to helping you stay safe and alert while using harvesting equipment. Harvesting Equipment Read about: Climate Challenge: Organic No-till vs. Conventional No-till 1. Wear Protective Gear … Read more
It isn’t just the insects that’ll get you. While orchard growers deal extensively with plum curculio, apple maggot fly and codling moth – just a few of the common insect pests responsible for crop losses – birds, large mammals and rodents can also do damage. Damage to fruit is a concern, but it is the … Read more