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The Grower's Guide To Managing
Nematodes, Phytophthora & Armillaria In Citrus
As every grower knows, what goes on beneath the surface of a grove
is just as important as what's happening on the tree. Trees that
appear starved for nutrients and water,  despite
regular irrigation and fertilization, are begging for closer inspection.
Not only can root damage reduce the quality and quantity of the
current year's crop, it also can stunt the tree's growth - or kill
it, impairing future crop yields and making the tree more vulnerable
to attack from pests. Obviously, if the tree's roots aren't healthy,
the grove's future could be jeopardized.
More than 50 percent of the citrus trees in California and Arizona
are infected by the citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans).
And, with the advent of low-volume irrigation which keeps the soil
wet most of the time, fungal attack of citrus roots also has become
much more common. Phytophthora citrophthora, Phytophthora parasitica
and Armillaria mellea (oak root fungus) are particularly destructive
to root systems. Infestations of any of these pests can cause severe
losses in productivity and profitability.
Unfortunately, detection of any of these pests is not as easy as
checking for insects or mites. Normally, you will notice a general
lack of vigor, a reduction in feeder-root growth, twig die-back
and reduced fruit size and yield. To confirm an infestation, you
must conduct a root and soil analysis. Since both nematodes and
fungi are microscopic, such an analysis is best conducted through
a qualified laboratory. Your local dealer or your Entek representative
can assist you in taking samples and interpreting the results.
 If
one or more of these pests is detected, an effective treatment -
including ENZONE® - can be developed. ENZONE will not only
help improve the health of your trees, it also can help bring about
a measurable increase in fruit size and yield.
ENZONE is a soil fumigant that can be used in post-plant applications
or for pre-plant fumigation. For post-plant applications, ENZONE
is applied just after root flush, when nematodes and fungi are most
active and attacking the tender new roots. ENZONE quickly and effectively
kills nematodes and soil-borne fungi during this most vulnerable
stage of their life cycle.
ENZONE is environmentally friendly. A few days after application,
ENZONE breaks down into naturally occurring soil minerals, eliminating
the danger of ground water contamination. ENZONE won't leave a residue
on or in your harvested crops, and does not require a "Restricted
Use" permit to be applied. And birds and wildlife that inadvertently
ingest ENZONE will not be harmed.
For more information about ENZONE, or about the management of nematodes,
contact your local dealer or call Helena at (559) 261-9030.
When it comes to nematodes and soil-borne fungi, what you can't
see can hurt you. If you want to keep your citrus trees healthy,
the time is ripe for ENZONE.
[Back To ENZONE]
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