Select a leaf from the lowest branch on the tree (shady/north side of tree). Established limb – not new growth. Readings need to be taken mid-day (about 12:30-2:30 PM)
Leaf should be fully expanded and in good condition – no holes, rot or problems with leaf.
Slide the leaf into the Almond Bag. Fold over and seal the bag with the two velcro tabs
The bag should be on the leaf for at least 15 minutes. Can be on for several hours without any problem. Best method is to put on bags and then come back and test them. The bag removes environmental stress and allows the leaf to equilibrate with the trunk of the tree.
After 15 minutes or more – cut the leaf from the tree. The instrument should be prepared so that the reading can be taken immediately.
Insert the petiole of the leaf into the bottom side of the chamber.
Petiole should just barely protrude through the gasket/insert of the lid. Tighten the gasket around the petiole by twisting the black ring clockwise till it is tight.
Next, put the bag/leaf down into the chamber and lock the chamber lid in place.
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Rate Valve should be set to fill the chamber at a rate of about 1 bar every 2 seconds. Too fast a rate will cause error in the reading at the end-point.
Place the Control Valve into the “Chamber” position and begin filling the chamber.
With one hand on the Control Valve, watch the end of the petiole carefully for water to appear. The end of the petiole will change from light green to a darker green at the moment the water appears. This is the “End-Point” or the reading. (Watch the video in order to see what the end-point looks like). Immediately stop the increase in the chamber by placing the “Control Valve” in the “OFF” position.
Record the reading.
Many thanks to Allan Fulton of the University of California Cooperative Extension!
SEVERE DROUGHT MANAGEMENT SUGGESTIONS – The Almond Doctor. An article by David Dhol – UCCE with some recommendations for surviving the California Drought.
