Swallow-wort (Cynanchum acutum L.) is a perennial vine that is mainly associated with wet habitats in Israel, and in the last years, its range has expanded to the date orchards of the Arava valley. Swallow-wort climbing vines can fully cover the date palm and the fruit bunches and hence inhibit their development, reduce yield production, and cause significant economic losses. In this project we investigate the phenology of the vine, the impact of pollination on seed production and rhizome development, and which control methods result in the least vine development. Our main objective is to develop enhanced control methods for swallow-wort based on the knowledge gained, that will be suitable for conventional and organic date orchards. Control options will include combined chemical
and physical methods that are based on a deeper understanding of the weed’s biology, pollination and propagation, and the interconnected human impact (social-ecological approach). New control protocols and a better understanding of the swallow-wort biology and propagation will help to achieve enhanced and sustainable control in agricultural sites.

להמשך קריאה :Enhanced and sustainable management approach for the control of swallow-wort in Israel's desert agriculture