Fruit Crop Ecology and Management - UVM Apple Orchard

20
ecologically based ground
cover and diversity
management practices such as
use of cover crops, mulch and
compost application may alter
the design. Keep in mind that
extremely high densities will
make it harder to balance the
entire farm ecosystem.
Generally, rows should be
oriented north to south to
optimize sun exposure. When
cool air drainage is important,
rows should run downhill
instead of across the slope or
on the contour.
Pruning and thinning
Pruning is probably the most
important operation to maintain
plant vigor and productivity,
achieve large fruit size and
superior quality, reduce insect
and disease pressure, and
develop appropriate growth
habits for harvesting. It also
provides better conditions for
spray and light penetration and
reduces the need for fruit
thinning. Proper pruning
balances good fruit production
with growth of vigorous new
vegetation. Pruning too lightly
can lead to dense and weak
plant growth because plants
fail to develop strong branches
for future production. In
contrast, severe pruning results
in fewer and larger fruit and
stimulates new vegetative
growth.
Fruit Crop Ecology and Management: Chapter 1
C. Edson
Excessive vigor created a
dense canopy blocking the
flow of air and light in
these Vignoles grapes.
C. Edson
Pruning can also spread
infectious diseases, especially
those caused by bacteria. In
cherry production, the ideal
conditions for pruning are dry,
warm periods to prevent
dispersal of bacterial canker
(Pseudomonas syringae).
Thinning improves fruit quality
and maximizes yield and
production in the following
season. Fruit can be thinned by
chemicals or by hand. The
amount of fruit that should be
removed varies, depending on
the variety, the age and vigor of
the plant, and the size and
quality of the fruit desired.
Timing and type of thinning
depend on the organ targeted.
Chemical flower thinning needs
to be managed carefully
because late spring frosts and
pests can further reduce fruit
The bunch rot that developed from the dense canopy
conditions is evident.