What can stone fruit growers learn from a soil fumigation trial in New Zealand?

A recent Pic-Plus soil fumigation trial in a replanted peach orchard in Bay View, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, showed positive results, including greater early tree growth and measurable changes in the soil microbiome.

The results provide an interesting look at the role of soil fumigation in orchard replanting.

Stronger Early Tree Growth

The trial followed Tatura Belle peaches grafted onto GQ rootstock. Tree trunk circumference was measured shortly after planting and again approximately one year later.

Trees planted in Pic-Plus soil fumigated rows showed:

• An additional 2.5 cm increase in trunk circumference compared with untreated previous inter-row areas, representing 72% greater growth.
• An additional 4 cm increase compared with untreated areas corresponding to previous orchard rows, representing 194% greater growth.

These results indicate that Pic-Plus soil fumigation was associated with significantly greater early tree growth under the conditions of this trial.

Looking Below the Surface

The trial also evaluated the soil microbiome before and after soil fumigation. Soil samples analyzed by Biome Makers showed that the abundance of representative beneficial bacteria increased by more than 80%, while representative beneficial fungi increased by approximately 180%.

The microorganisms included genera such as Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Trichoderma, Glomus, and others.

This is an important area of research because soil fumigation is often discussed primarily in terms of managing soilborne pests. The New Zealand trial shows the value of also examining what happens to the soil microbial community following soil fumigation.

What Does This Mean for U.S. Growers?

New Zealand and the United States have different growing conditions, so results from one location should not be assumed to occur in every orchard.

However, the trial offers an important takeaway for growers considering orchard replanting. Looking at both early tree development and soil biology can provide a more complete understanding of a soil fumigation program.

Pic-Plus Soil Fumigant contains 85.5% chloropicrin. TriCal, Inc. offers Pic-Plus as part of its chloropicrin-based soil fumigation solutions for agricultural applications.

Field research like this helps expand our understanding of chloropicrin soil fumigation and its role in supporting successful crop establishment.

The lesson from New Zealand is simple: when preparing the next generation of an orchard, it pays to look closely at what is happening both above and below the soil surface.

Results are from a specific New Zealand field trial and should not be interpreted as representative of all crops, locations, or conditions.

Pic-Plus is a Federally Restricted Use Pesticide. Always read and follow label directions.

For more information about our products for your operation, contact us at (669) 327-5076 or email info@trical.com. Our team is ready to help you select the right solution for your field.

Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest TriCal news!