PRUNING AND TRAINING SYSTEMS: WHAT IS NEXT?

Abstract

Training is dramatically changing from strictly geometrical shaped trees to more natural growth, depending on tree vigour and productivity, mechanization and labour intensity. The most spreading training systems (Catalonian vase, delayed vase and free central axis) in new orchards are characterized by early bearing with a shortened not-fruiting initial phase, easy mechanization and low labour input. They are “transitional” systems, which move from an initial transitory bushy form to the final geometric shape via spring and summer pruning. They are characterized by two initial years of free growth to achieve early bearing and high production at the third year, and reaching the final shape by the third or fourth year. The annual winter pruning maintains its importance and it cannot be neglected in any mature orchards, but only partially substituted by mechanical pruning. Therefore, the most common pruning approach is still a combination of shoot and limb thinning, the pruning intensity and period is related to cultivar, climatic conditions and orchard management. Heading shoots back may have some importance, if undertaken before bloom until fruit set in very early ripening cultivars where it is necessary to improve fruit growth.