A Complete Analysis of the Latest Management Key Points for Walnut Trees
Walnuts are known as one of the four major dried fruits in the world. They contain extremely rich nutrients and many substances essential to the human body, such as calcium, phosphorus and other trace elements. The saying that “walnuts boost the brain” is not without reason either. In our country they are one of the most popular nuts. Walnut cultivation is now becoming more and more common; walnuts are relatively easy to manage and have strong adaptability. So after planting, how should they be managed? Let's take a look together below!
1. Soil
For walnut trees to grow and develop well, suitable soil is indispensable. The fertility level of the soil directly affects the growth rate and fruiting rate of the fruit tree. Carry out appropriate intertillage and hilling of the soil to increase the soil's water content, enhance the soil's permeability, raise the soil's fertility level, promote the growth of walnut trees, and improve yield and quality.
2. Pruning
Reasonable pruning is a key factor in achieving high yields from walnut trees. If pruning is done after leaf fall or during the bud break period, it is not conducive to wound healing and makes the tree highly prone to pests and diseases. As far as possible, schedule pruning after harvest; pruning the tree at this time can effectively adjust the tree's structure. Although it will have a certain effect on nutrient accumulation, the problem is not serious.
3. Fertilization
The growth of walnuts has a relatively large demand for nutrients. When carrying out intertillage and hilling of the soil, apply base fertilizer, fully mix and stir the base fertilizer together with the soil to enhance soil fertility. Later, apply additional fertilizer as appropriate according to the tree's growth conditions, weather changes and the nutrient level in the soil. When fertilizing, do not pour the fertilizer directly into the pit; be careful to mix it evenly with the soil, otherwise it may burn the tree roots.
4. Watering
Watering is essential. After planting, water once to settle the roots, and after each application of base fertilizer and additional fertilizer, replenish water as well to promote the tree roots' absorption of fertilizer nutrients. Walnut is a water-loving crop, so the water needed during walnut growth must be guaranteed. In continuous drought weather, replenish water in time to prevent walnuts from suffering water shortage, which would adversely affect growth and development.
5. Pests and Diseases
Walnut trees have relatively strong disease resistance, and the pests and diseases that occur are fewer than those of other crops, but sometimes pests and diseases are still caused by improper management. If pests and diseases are not dealt with in time, growth and development will be blocked or the tree may even die. Spray chemicals regularly for prevention, patrol the orchard, determine the disease according to its incidence and treat it accordingly, and after harvest do a good job of disinfecting and cleaning the orchard.
6. Overwintering
Walnuts like moisture and tolerate waterlogging but are not cold-resistant. After harvest, overwintering work also needs to be done well to prevent freeze damage. Before winter begins, whitewash and brush the lower part of the tree trunk to provide insulation. In snowy weather with heavy snow accumulation, promptly sweep away the snow around the tree. Lay plastic film to increase the ground surface temperature and prevent freeze damage.
The six points above are a brief introduction to the management key points for growing walnuts. If any one of the above points is not carefully controlled in place, it will have a relatively large impact on the growth and development of walnuts. For example, if pests and diseases are not dealt with in time, at best it will greatly reduce yield and lower quality, and at worst it will cause the entire tree to die. So when planting, everyone must satisfy all the requirements needed for walnut growth; only then can they successfully survive and achieve high yields.