Valent Views Episode 6: Jim Wargo Shares Harvest-Season Insights from Massachusetts Apple Orchards

See What’s Growing in the Apple Orchards of Massachusetts 🍎

As harvest approaches in Massachusetts, the apple orchards are buzzing with activity and preparation. In this episode of Valent Views, Sustainable Solutions Specialist Jim Wargo takes us into the field to share timely insights on how growers are navigating the season’s unique challenges.

Walking through the orchard rows, Jim highlights both the resilience and innovation of local growers. With unpredictable weather swings adding stress to the trees, conditions have become favorable for pests and disease. But thanks to vigilant monitoring and adaptive practices, growers are finding ways to stay one step ahead.

Tackling Pest and Disease Pressure

Jim explains how trapping systems are being deployed across orchards to monitor key pests like codling moth and oriental fruit moth. These tools provide critical data to guide treatment timing, helping growers protect fruit quality while minimizing unnecessary applications.

Disease management is also top of mind, especially with the humid conditions that can favor the spread of pathogens. From scouting to strategic sprays, orchard teams are taking proactive steps to maintain healthy canopies and productive trees.

Smarter Irrigation and Soil Management

Water management has become a balancing act this season, and Jim showcases how tools like tensiometers and sap meters are helping growers measure soil moisture and tree water uptake in real time. This data-driven approach ensures that irrigation is targeted, efficient, and responsive to actual orchard needs—critical for both crop health and sustainability.

Resilient Orchards, Real Solutions

Through a mix of traditional practices and innovative technology, apple growers in Massachusetts are showing how adaptability and science go hand in hand. As Jim puts it, resilience in the orchard isn’t just about managing challenges—it’s about setting the stage for a successful harvest.

Real orchards. Real challenges. Real solutions.
Watch the video below to see Jim’s full orchard walk and learn more.