When permanent crops like almonds, pistachios, or walnuts are removed, the leftover wood chips present a unique challenge. While chipping is an efficient way to dispose of old orchards, those wood chips can stay in the soil for years, locking up vital nitrogen and affecting future crop performance. Removing them is ideal, but that’s not always possible. So, what can farmers do?
🌱 Wood chips can dramatically affect nitrogen availability. Studies show that up to 60 lbs of nitrogen per acre can be tied up during decomposition. To maintain crop health, growers must act strategically.
What Happens When Wood Chips Stay in Soil?
- Nitrogen depletion: Microbes breaking down wood chips consume nitrogen, leaving less for new plants.
- Slow decomposition: Untreated chips may take 3-5 years to fully break down.
- Lower yields: Crops planted too soon may struggle due to nutrient competition.
If You Must Plant into Wood Chips, Consider These Solutions:
- Deep flip plow the chips to bury them well below the root zone.
- Incorporate manure into the soil and apply 2–4 gallons/acre of UN-32 to jump-start decomposition.
- Use biological aids like Waste Away (1 gal/acre) to accelerate breakdown.
- Plant a row crop first to stimulate microbial activity and improve nitrogen cycling.
- Laser level your fields if using flood irrigation to prevent pooling and ensure uniform growth.
Important Notes for Success:
- Expect lower yields in the first year, especially with row crops.
- Tree crops may appear weaker at first, but with proper inputs, they’ll catch up.
- Always check herbicide history, especially for Alachlor or Alion, which can persist in soil.
- Plan for more fertilizer and biological inputs in the first two seasons.
Simplify Farm Management with AgNote
AgNote farm management software can make this entire process easier. With dedicated row and permanent crop areas, growers can track inputs, manage plantings, monitor expenses, and plan ahead – all in one place. Sign up for a free 7-day trial and simplify your farm operations today!
