About
FloraPulse
Retire the pressure chamber, know exactly when to irrigate, increase crop yield and quality.
FloraPulse began in the orchards and vineyards of growers.
Since the 1970’s, Alan Lakso, professor of Horticulture at Cornell, had been dragging around the heavy, manual pressure chamber to measure and manage water stress in apple trees and grapevines. Alan was documenting the levels of water stress and their effect on fruit growth and quality. Back then, winegrape growers understood that water stress was important to wine quality, but only had the pressure chamber to measure it.
Why FloraPulse?
Downy Mildew California
Overview of Downy Mildew
As any seasoned grower will tell you, Downy Mildew is a persistent adversary, especially in California’s diverse agricultural landscape. The disease is caused by a group of oomycetes, notorious for their rapid spread and ability to cause significant damage to crops. Unlike true fungi, oomycetes thrive in specific environmental conditions, making warm, humid environments like parts of California a perfect breeding ground for Downy Mildew.
Causes of Downy Mildew in California
Downy Mildew is particularly menacing in California due to the state’s unique climatic conditions. The blend of coastal fog, the state’s microclimates, and varying humidity levels provide ample conditions for its proliferation. Furthermore, irrigation practices, often necessary due to the state’s drought-prone nature, can inadvertently exacerbate the problem by creating the moist conditions Downy Mildew thrives in.
Symptoms of Downy Mildew in California
Recognizing Downy Mildew early is crucial for mitigation. In California, affected plants typically display yellowing leaves with a characteristic white or grayish fungal growth on the underside. As the disease progresses, leaves may curl, brown, and eventually fall off. This defoliation leads to weakened plants and reduced photosynthesis, ultimately impacting crop yields.
Impact of Downy Mildew on California Crops
The implications of Downy Mildew infestation on California’s agriculture cannot be understated. It affects a wide array of crops, from leafy greens to vineyards, which are crucial to the state’s economy. For owners of vineyards, the disease can mean a loss of grapes, leading to reduced wine production and economic losses. Similarly, leafy green crops that form a vital part of California’s agricultural output face quality and yield challenges.
Management and Control Strategies for Downy Mildew in California
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Effective management of Downy Mildew involves an integrated approach. Employing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies can be particularly effective. This includes crop rotation, using resistant plant varieties, and careful monitoring of soil moisture.
Precise Irrigation Management
At FloraPulse, we have a unique appreciation for the importance of water management in battling diseases like Downy Mildew. Our plant-based irrigation sensors provide precision irrigation guidance that helps reduce the occurrence of conditions conducive to the spread of Downy Mildew. By offering daily measurements of midday stem water potential, we empower growers to make informed irrigation decisions, minimizing excess moisture that could lead to mildew proliferation.
Fungicidal Applications
While chemical control may be necessary, fungicides should be used judiciously to prevent resistance. Proper timing and application are crucial for efficacy. Consulting with local agricultural extensions or experts can ensure the right approach is taken.
Research and Advancements in Combating Downy Mildew in California
California’s agricultural community, including our team at FloraPulse, is at the forefront of research and innovation in combating Downy Mildew. Our sensor technology, backed by NSF and USDA support, provides insights that are crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. By collaborating with researchers and growers, we continue to explore new methodologies to enhance resilience against this persistent pathogen.
Advancements in breeding resistant varieties are also part of the ongoing efforts in the fight against Downy Mildew. Scientists are leveraging genomic tools to develop crops that can withstand the pathogen’s assault without sacrificing yield or quality.
In conclusion, Downy Mildew is a formidable challenge for California growers, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is a battle that can be fought effectively. At FloraPulse, we remain committed to supporting growers with scientifically validated, innovative solutions that ensure the health of their crops and the sustainability of their farming operations. Through precise irrigation management and collaborative research efforts, there is hope for a future where Downy Mildew’s impact is significantly reduced, safeguarding California’s agricultural bounty for generations to come.
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How It Works
How It Works
The FloraPulse system is a microchip tensiometer (microtensiometer) that is embedded into the tree woody tissue and directly measures the water status, known as water potential. Because the measurement is taken directly inside the water-carrying tissue, readings are very accurate and reliable. You receive daily midday stem water potential readings, along with science-backed irrigation recommendations.
Weekly Reports
Receive weekly reports on your crop’s water-stress history, color-coded by stress level. Use clear, detailed data to adjust your irrigation and get that perfect vintage, that perfect yield. Every year.
Scientific Validation
The sensor data has been validated against the Scholander chamber with good correlation in prune, almond, winegrape (and others).
Technology Backers
Our technology has been funded by the NSF and USDA, and was originally developed at Cornell University.
What is FloraPulse?
The most accurate way to irrigate.
Customer Testimonials
“We were extremely happy with the FloraPulse system we tested in our prune orchard this year. We found that the FloraPulse readings correlated very well with our pressure bomb readings…
Michael Vasey
Lindauer River Ranch
Red Bluff, California
“I am very happy with the FloraPulse unit. I grow a rare mango crop, in a desert environment with extremely high summer temperatures, in alluvium soil that has very limited…
Rod Chamberlain
Wong Farms
Mecca, California