Orchard floor management systems used in California almonds vary from planting cover crops between the tree rows to management of the existing ground cover or weeds in the orchard to removal of the vegetation on the soil surface. Cover crops, sometimes called living mulches, have been used in orchards for many years. Many orchardists have successfully converted their weed management practices from repeated disking to maintenance of the vegetation through mowing.

The researchers wish to acknowledge growers Hiro Asai and Kenneth Harbour for their cooperation and use of their almond orchards and operations. Partial funding for this study was supplied by the University of California Integrated Pest Management Project. The researchers also acknowledge Monsanto Agricultural Company, Elanco Products Company, Rohm and Haas Company, and Stauffer Chemical Company for herbicide supplies.