Weed Control in Orchards and Vineyards

Weed management in tree and vine cropping systems is a major factor in the establishment, production, and harvest of these important fruit and nut crops. Factors that influence weed control methods in orchards and vineyards include weed species and density, crop age, planting arrangement, and irrigation systems, as well as the grower's time, equipment, available labor, and economic resources. Weed management techniques commonly include mechanical methods such as mowing or cultivation; chemical methods including preemergence or postemergence herbicide applications; and cultural methods such as cover cropping. Most managers will use several methods in an integrated approach to address weed management challenges and may alter their techniques in response to changing needs during the life of the orchard or vineyard.