Select groundcover management systems found viable for organically managed apple orchard

A long-term study evaluated four groundcover management systems in combination with composted poultry litter, commercial organic fertilizer, or a nonfertilized control to determine ability to alter near-surface soil quality in a new organically managed apple orchard in the Ozark Highlands of northwest Arkansas. Results showed the GMS and nutrient source combinations were viable management options for apple producers in the region while satisfying USDA-National Organic Program requirements to improve soil quality with crop production.



from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1IewY4g via Karis World