Association Between Flaming Efficiency and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Pressure and Flaming Time in Hazelnut Sucker Control Done Using a Flame Torch

Abstract

Turkish hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is naturally grown as a multi-stemmed shrub. This hazelnut produces lots of suckers. Suckers compete with the main branches for nutrients and water. Because the emergence of suckers negatively affects crop management in the hazelnut orchards are required to eliminate at least twice a year. Flaming is an alternative method to chemical and mechanical control methods. In this study, the effect of gas pressure, flaming time on fuel consumption and flaming efficiency in hazelnut sucker control were evaluated. The trials were carried out in an shrub ocak (in Turkish) type hazelnut orchard The results show that the torch flaming method is a useable method for hazelnut basal sucker cleaning. Gas pressure and flaming time had significant effects on fuel consumption and flaming efficiency. 150 s flaming duration and 3 bar pressure is sufficient for the flaming application. Durations above this time will increase fuel consumption and time loss.

Sustainable Management of Sucker Problem in Hazelnut Cultivation

“…These applications included 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 seconds of treatment with 1, 2, 3, and 4 bar pressure levels. The most effective application was accomplished with a period of 150 seconds and a pressure of 3 bars which reduce LPG consumption drastically and control the suckers 90% (Tekgüler, 2021). This study represents a valuable research on the combinations of duration and pressure levels to reduce LPG consumption and minimize environmental impact.…”

“…It is essential that all hazelnut cultivation practices, including sucker control, are carried out at the right time and frequency. Hazelnuts are mainly grown in the bottom area (ocak in Turkish) system in Türkiye (Tekgüler, 2021). This system is a multi-stemmed planting system (İslam, 2018) and usually, six or eight saplings planted are around a circle 1-1.2 m in diameter in a bottom area (Beyhan, 2007).…”

“…As an alternative approach to control suckers, the use of these methods is also recommended in hazelnut orchards in Türkiye. Additionally, hot water has been recently used for weed control in different areas, and it could also be used for controlling suckers in hazelnut orchards (Tomasone et al, 2010;Tekgüler, 2021). These physical control methods can provide effective and environmentally friendly alternatives for managing suckers.…”

“…Their utilization helps reduce the use of pesticides and minimizes environmental impacts while ensuring efficient control of suckers. Research and trials are important to evaluate the effectiveness of hot water treatment on suckers and better understand its applicability in hazelnut orchards (Tomasone et al, 2010;Tekgüler, 2021). The implementation of these alternative methods contributes to sustainable and eco-friendly hazelnut cultivation practices, which can be beneficial for hazelnut growers in Türkiye and around the world.…”

“…The narrow spacing between hazelnut trees in the orchards led to adverse effects on the main hazelnut branches and reduced the effectiveness of flame treatment on suckers in the tractor-pulled application. Flame application is advantageous as it also controls weeds in the orchard, in addition to sucker control (Tekgüler, 2021).…”