A Bog in Your Backyard
The old rule of thumb is that cranberries require up to one inch of water per week during the growing season. If rainfall is inadequate (not likely so far this summer!), water is applied through the sprinkler system.
At Makepeace, most of the sprinkler system on our nearly 2,000 acres of bog is automated and controlled remotely through an internet-based system to optimize both water usage and human resources.
Weeds
Weeds may appear on a cranberry bog during the summer. Workers hand-pull weeds, utilize the irrigation system, or wipe them with a manual or mechanical herbicide applicator.
Bees
Pollination is an essential part of cranberry growing. Growers utilize one or two bee hives per acre of bog during bloom, early June through mid-July, to pollinate the cranberry flowers.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Makepeace uses IPM techniques as an ecological approach to pest control. IPM includes a combination of biological, cultural, or chemical control methods. Throughout the spring and summer, IPM scouts use insect nets and sticky traps to monitor pest activity.
Pesticide Application
Insecticides and fungicides may be applied during the summer months to control or prevent serious damage caused by various insects and diseases. Pesticides are only used when necessary and are applied by state certified applicators.