5_2_strict_citrus

Overall bare soil management of orchards throughout the year is not permitted. Bare soil management is permitted in spring and summer to avoid competition for water and nutrients.

A vegetation cover in at least the alleyways is mandatory during the winter time.

Regional or national IP guidelines must specify a maximum width for the weed free strip and/or percentage of the soil surface which may be weed-free. The procedures for practical implementation must be defined in the regional guidelines according to climate, soil type, cultivars and precipitation.

Herbicides may only be used on the planting line (under the trees) to supplement mechanical and physical weed control methods.

Herbicides must not be used to achieve overall bare soil. They can only be used locally during spring and summer when physical or mechanical control (preferred option) isnot appropriate.