July/August 2025 issue highlights: Drift, drying and harvest innovation

The July/August issue of National Nut Grower brings you the research, stories and innovations shaping the way growers work today. From harvest breakthroughs to the human side of farming, these features offer practical insight and fresh perspectives for every operation.

2,4-D drift delays kernel drop in hazelnut orchards

Research in the Willamette Valley confirms that herbicide drift of 2,4-D slows nut drop in hazelnut trees, complicating harvest timing and potentially reducing yield. The study explains drift mechanisms and offers risk-reduction strategies informed by grower observations.

Postharvest precision: Oven drying elevates walnut quality

New findings suggest that oven drying walnuts at controlled, low temperatures beats traditional air drying by locking in flavor, appearance, and nutrition. This method also speeds up drying, reducing postharvest losses and improving market readiness.

Fly like an eagle: Heart of the Desert pistachios

Meet George and Marianne Schweers, a former Air Force officer and his wife, who cultivated pistachios in New Mexico’s Tularosa Basin. Their innovative journey — from bed-sheet harvesting to mechanical methods — showcases ingenuity and family-driven farming in a challenging desert climate.

Advances push tree nut harvesting into the future

Mechanical shakers and sweepers have long been staples, but new harvesting tech is taking precision to the next level. Thanks to machine-vision and refined vibratory units, growers are seeing up to 93% harvest efficiency with minimal crop damage.

The Almond Project puts regenerative ag to the test

California almond growers are experimenting with regenerative approaches like cover crops, compost and grazing sheep through an ambitious coalition called The Almond Project. The initiative is gathering real-world data to ensure these practices are both eco-friendly and financially viable.

Immigration uncertainty

Amid evolving policy positions, including statements from USDA leadership and immigration enforcement pressures, growers face increasing labor insecurity. The article explores how uncertainty around amnesty, raids and labor reforms is pushing producers toward automation and policy advocacy.

California rethinks sustainable pest management

California’s new Sustainable Pest Management roadmap introduces a pesticide prioritization system that could reshape how protection tools are regulated. While the approach emphasizes science and transparency, growers worry about losing irreplaceable tools critical for managing high-value, permanent nut crops.

Explore the full issue

From harvest innovations to labor and policy shifts, the July/August 2025 issue delivers research, grower stories and practical tools to help nut producers stay competitive in a changing industry.

Explore the full issue online and gain practical takeaways to help your orchard thrive.