

New weed control strategies in strawberry are effective
The Issue

Little mallow is a troublesome weed in strawberry production because its hard seed survives soil fumigation. However, research showed that it can be easily controlled with pre-transplant oxyfluorfen application, a strategy that has been adopted by many growers.
What Has ANR Done?
During the last five years, UC Cooperative Extension scientists have conducted a series of studies in grower fields in all California strawberry production areas. Their research concluded that:The Payoff
Growers have adopted the new effective and environmentally friendly weed control strategies.
This research and extension program helped growers save $150 to $300 per acre in hand-weeding labor costs. The number of growers that adopted these weed control strategies increased more than 10 times in a two-year period. Pest control advisers have benefited from new technology in applying alternative fumigants and herbicides, because it provides effective weed control and complies with regulatory requirements. The general public has also benefited from increased environmental safety with new weed control strategies in strawberry production near residential areas.Contact
Supporting Unit:
University of California Cooperative Extension-Ventura County and UC Davis, Salinas.Oleg Daugovish, UC Cooperative Extension, Ventura County, (805) 645-1454, odaugofish@ucdavis.edu
Steve Fennimore, UC Davis, Salinas, (831) 755-2896, safennimore@ucdavis.edu