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In Ventura County, biological integrated pest management (IPM) has been used since the mid-1920's by the Fillmore Citrus Protective District to great success. Study by the University of California of IPM goes back to the turn of the century.

Definitive Study
Research in 1990 and 1991 by University of California, Davis, scientists found that cover crops, increasingly being used in California vineyards, have far-reaching and beneficial effects. Among them are prevention of soil erosion, nitrogen addition, soil structure improvement, enhanced trafficability during wet weather, weed suppression and creating a habitat for beneficial arthropods.
Covercropping sounds like a magic bullet, especially when you consider that it reduces the grower's work load, fuel use, and the necessity for pesticides. All these benefits and savings too!
The Davis scientists tested thirty-two cover crops in an organic Chardon-nay vineyard in Mendocino County for height, above-ground biomass, percentage of vegetation cover, stand uniformity and weed cover and total biomass.
Many showed specific characteristics that would recommend their uses in various applications. Whether for erosion control in hilly areas or moisture management in low areas, there is a cover crop right for the task.

Beauty and the Buck
Combining wildflowers and flowering legumes with cover crops is an idea that pays off in improved aesthetics as well as nitrification of the soil. For winemakers depending on tourist trade this is an extra benefit and a profitable marketing device.
The insectory benefits of cover cropping became apparent in the Davis studies. Diverse cover crops welcome beneficial insects (that attack destructive pests) and offer an alternative habitat so vines are not the only place for the insects to get a meal. Vineyards and orchards with cleanly disced medians between rows have nothing for insects to eat so your cash crop is the only item on the menu at Chez Bug Restaurant.
Seasonal discing, chiseling, pre-leveling, leveling, rock picking and other labor intensive processes are no longer necessary. Pruning debris can be left in the rows and chopped to speed breakdown. Cover crops will reseed themselves. Mowing or chopping to distribute the seed is all that's needed. And as the biomass of living and composting materials increases, the mud that used to come with each rain is no longer a concern. The matrix that builds up eliminates soil compaction and allows vehicles to be used between the rows even in the wettest weather.

New Product is a Beauty
Paul Albright of the S&S Seeds has introduced a new weapon in the orchard and vineyard bug wars that will beautify the battleground while hosting the predatory insects. Insecta-Flora is a specialized mix that contains arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), alyssum (Lobularia maritimum), bachelor buttons (Centaurea cyanus) and nine other brilliant wildflower varieties.
Insecta-Flora creates a natural insectory that attracts and supports the beneficials and provides an alternate target for crop destroyers, drawing them into an insect ambush.
This new product is available in pound-and-a-quarter bags that will cover 5,000 square feet. Larger quantities can be special ordered.
But Albright doesn't stop with Insecta-Flora . Paul will create site-specific custom blends to meet any cover crop need to help you recruit an insect army.

Wise Counsel Available
Selecting the right cover crop for your application is not a simple task. For results that optimize the payoff, a careful analysis of your agricultural product, soil type, climate, and field configuration is necessary. That's where Albright Seed Company can help. The Albright consultants are experienced in cover crop selection and analysis of your needs and they can guide you through the process of selection and planning, planting and cultivation. And they are a free phone call away. Albright —for the newest twist in an ancient art.

Insecta-Flora A Wildflower seed mix, beneficial insect attractant and alternative food source. Use for chemical-free biological control of crop-destroying insects with the beauty of spring wildflowers. Call (805) 684-0436 to order or order online.

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