New Zealand Plant Protection 53 (2000): 22-27
Assessing ground covers in a newly planted apple orchard
M.J. Hartley, A. Rahman, K.C. Harrington and T.K. James
ABSTRACT
Three low growing ground-cover species, dichondra (Dichondra micrantha), hydrocotyle (Hydrocotyle heteromeria) and a creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra)/white clover (Trifolium repens) mixture were compared to bark mulch and herbicide in a newly planted apple orchard for their ability to suppress weeds. Dichondra, with the aid of an initial herbicide treatment, established a dense ground cover and provided good weed suppression. Hydrocotyle failed to establish under the dry Hawke's Bay conditions. Creeping red fescue gave moderate weed suppression. Bark required spot treatment with herbicide for complete weed control. All ground covers reduced tree growth and fruit yield in the first year compared to herbicide and bark mulch.
Keywords: ground covers, mulches, Dichondra micrantha, Hydrocotyle heteromeria, Festuca rubra.
Copyright © 2000 New Zealand Plant Protection Society (Inc.).
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 | Long term ground cover options for apple orchards K.C. Harrington, M.J. Hartley, A. Rahman and T.K. James (2005) New Zealand Plant Protection 58: 164-168 |
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