Specific orchard design and rollout recommendations to mitigate the likelihood of pomegranate dieback in Australia

In addressing the as yet unanswered question of whether it is biotic or abiotic, a preceding investigation was carried out to identify a possible relationship between waterlogging and the Australian pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) dieback, given the uncertainty surrounding the root cause of the dieback in Australia. One of the most striking findings from the trials showed that dieback was linked to an abiotic cause, waterlogging, especially in areas with high silt and clay soil content. This study discusses the effects of waterlogging on plant health and provides recommendations designed to help mitigate potential affliction by pomegranate dieback. Natural support mechanisms like bed formation and drip irrigation are discussed, as well as practices involving companion planting, melatonin, earthworms and mycorrhizal fungi.