Most growers use a mixture of barley plus bell beans planted in October. Preplant soil amendments should be thoroughly disked into the soil after leveling to prevent pockets of salt concentrations. After the soil is leveled, fumigants are applied by specially equipped and trained applicators. Growers should arrange for the application well in advance of the desired fumigation date. For best results, the soil should contain a small amount of moisture but still be fairly dry and in excellent tilth.
Fumigants can disperse more efficiently in light soils.
A mixture of methyl bromide and chloropicrin applied under a sealed plastic tarp is the standard fumigation practice in California. The continuous tarp method and bed treatment are currently used. The tarp should remain in place at least 48 hours after fumigation. After it is removed, the land is ready for listing. If bed fumigation is used, plantings are made through the plastic cover after the fumigant has dissipated.