Scientists Pershang Hosseini and Matt Fatino discuss their research for controlling the parasitic plant Orobanche, commonly called broomrape. Strategies include drawing down the bank of seeds in the soil, adding herbicide to irrigation water and timing transplants going into infested fields.
At the Automated Technology Field Day in Salinas, cutting-edge machines tackled weed control with lasers, AI, and robotics. As labor shortages and regulations reshape farming, growers are embracing innovative solutions like canola oil sprayers and smart cultivators to boost efficiency.
The Diagnosing Herbicide Symptoms field day at UC Davis trained growers and researchers to identify crop damage causes, from herbicides to water stress. Experts emphasized detective work, careful application, and alternative explanations like pests or soil issues.
UC Davis researchers showcased new rice varieties offering better weed control with less herbicide at the Rice Field Day. They discussed drought impacts, fallow land benefits, and new herbicide trials to combat resistant weeds.
A course developed by the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program, "Diagnosing Herbicide Injury," won a 2022 Gold Award for its interactive, animated tutorial led by a cartoon resembling Professor Brad Hanson. It helps users identify herbicide-related plant issues and is popular with growers and pest advisers.
