Four years of research indicate that hedged orchards and research plots avoid several disadvantages of traditional orchards. In the latter, large trees make poor use of space and light, and age-related physiology changes in the trees reduce overall yield. The small, pruned trees tolerate more feeding by many types of leaf-feeding insects without economic loss and require less insecticide use. They also exhibit higher photosynthetic rates than large trees. Canopies of individual trees should be about 20 feet wide and 30 feet tall with 30 feet between tree rows.
Pecan orchards span the entire southern United States.
Cotton with this leaf type is also less prone to boll rot than conventional cotton types. The leaves are narrower and more evenly distributed on the plant than other cotton types. Okra-leaf cotton also resists attacks by whiteflies, pink bollworms, and other insects better than commonly grown varieties. A new fiber optic sensor that detects soil smearing could help farmers boost corn yields. Smearing occurs when seed-planting equipment rubs against the soil, forming a smooth, compact layer in the seed furrow.