Detailed Explanation of Key Walnut Autumn Management Techniques

AbstractWalnut autumn management is mainly carried out in three aspects: soil, branch pruning, and pest and disease control. Since the root system of walnut trees is relatively long, the soil needs to be deeply turned frequently, which helps the roots absorb nutrients, and when deeply turning, base fertilizer needs to be applied, and after fertilizing, water promptly. In autumn, after the walnuts are picked or when the leaves turn yellow, pruning is needed. Branches that have been bitten by pests also need to be pruned, which can cut off the source of pests and diseases.

I. Soil Management

1. The root system of walnut trees is relatively long, so it can generally penetrate very deep into the soil, and it prefers soft, airy soil. After the fruit is picked, the soil can be deeply turned, and generally a depth of only 25 to 40 cm is enough, which helps new roots grow and also helps the roots absorb nutrients from the soil.

2. When the soil is deeply turned, some base fertilizer can be applied. The amount of fertilizer needs to be judged according to the situation. Usually, if 1,000 grams of walnuts can be produced in a year, then 5,000 grams of organic fertilizer can be applied at this time, and some phosphorus and potassium fertilizer can also be added. The amount of fertilizer applied also differs at each stage of the walnut tree: each young tree is fertilized with 20 to 30 kg, trees that have just borne fruit after flowering are fertilized with 30 to 50 kg per tree, and when the fruit is about to mature, each tree is fertilized with 50 to 80 kg. However, it should be noted that when fertilizing, the fertilizer and soil need to be mixed evenly together.

3. After the walnut tree is fertilized, it should be watered immediately, which can promote the decomposition of the fertilizer and help the walnut tree grow in autumn.

II. Pruning Management

In autumn, after the fruit is picked or when the leaves turn somewhat yellow, pruning is needed. Generally, pruning can be done one month after leaf fall stops or when sprouting is near. When pruning, do not prune only the leaves, otherwise it will affect the accumulation of nutrients. In fact, the main thing is to prune large branches, such as branches that are too dense, or branches that have been bitten by pests or block sunlight.

III. Disease Prevention and Control Management

There are not many pests and diseases on walnut trees, but in order to prevent later losses, some preventive measures still need to be taken. The main method is to observe the condition of the branches more often. Once a branch bitten by pests is found, prune it immediately, and burn the pruned branches, which can eliminate the source of pests and diseases.