As harvest wraps up in California’s Central Valley, growers shift their focus to orchard winterization. The quiet season is when critical work gets done to protect orchards and vineyards from pests, weeds, and disease. Clearing debris and removing nut mummies is not just a matter of waiting for spring. It is an active process that sets the stage for a healthy and productive crop next year.

At D&M Manufacturing Co., we build the tools that make winter prep possible. From berm blowers that clear debris to herbicide sprayers that knock back weeds, our machines are designed to help growers stay ahead.

Berm Blowers: Clearing Leaves and Debris

When orchards go dormant, leaves and branches pile up in berms and row middles. If left in place, this debris interferes with weed control, sprays, and spring work. Clean orchard floors also reduce places where pests and disease can take hold.

That is why berm blowers are essential for winter prep. D&M’s LB36 Orchard Berm Blower and VLB3P Vineyard Berm Blower are designed for tough field conditions. Adjustable nozzles let operators clear debris with precision, keeping orchard floors open and manageable for the season ahead.

Control Weeds Early

Winter rains encourage weed growth in orchards and vineyards. These weeds compete with trees and vines for water and nutrients, and they can interfere with pruning or field access. Controlling vegetation before it spreads is one of the most cost-effective steps a grower can take during winter.

That is where herbicide sprayers come in. D&M’s HSS Series, HSVP300, and HSSV models are designed for reliable coverage and efficient application. Built with heavy-duty tanks, adjustable booms, and dependable pumps, they give growers the ability to manage weeds while fields are still dormant. By spring, the orchard floor is cleaner and easier to maintain.

Nut Mummies: Reducing the Risk of Pests and Disease

Nut mummies left behind after harvest are one of the most common sources of pest problems. Navel orangeworm in particular overwinters inside these leftover nuts, emerging in spring to damage next year’s crop. The best way to prevent this cycle is to remove nut mummies before they can become a problem.

D&M equipment plays a direct role in this step. Berm blowers clear orchard rows and make it easier to collect and destroy fallen mummies. By combining sanitation practices with equipment support, growers reduce pest pressure and protect crop quality.

Winter Prep Checklist for Growers

Stay ahead of pests and weeds by focusing on these top priorities:

• Clear berms with orchard or vineyard berm blowers to remove leaves, branches, and nut mummies.
• Manage weeds early using herbicide sprayers to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
• Reduce pest pressure by eliminating nut mummies that harbor navel orangeworm and other insects.

Built for Growers Who Plan Ahead

Since 1987, D&M Manufacturing Co. has supplied the Central Valley with equipment that is durable, serviceable, and field-proven. Our machines are not built for show. They are built for growers who want reliable tools to help them stay productive year after year.

Winterizing is one of the best ways to protect a crop before the new season begins. Whether you need a berm blower to clean orchard floors or an herbicide sprayer to control weeds, D&M has solutions that work.

Plan Your Winter Prep with D&M

The work you do in fall and winter sets the stage for next year’s harvest. Effective vineyard winter prep includes clearing berms, managing weeds, and reducing pest pressure before it builds up. D&M’s berm blowers and sprayers give growers reliable tools to handle these tasks while extending the life of their machines through proper orchard equipment maintenance. To schedule service or ask about equipment, contact our team today. Grower satisfaction is our success, and we build every machine to prove it.