Abstract
Semi-dwarfing rootstocks have enabled the adoption of high-density orchard systems for sweet cherry. Understanding the effects of training systems on light capture and fruit quality of lateral bearing cultivars early in tree/orchard establishment is lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate light interception and fruit quality over two seasons of 4–5 year-old ‘Kordia’ grafted to ‘Krymsk 5′ rootstock and trained to the 2D planar training systems of upright fruiting offshoot (UFO), super spindle axe (SSA), tall spindle axe (TSA), Bibaum (BB) and steep leader (SL). Average light interception over the two seasons was highest in UFO and SL (69%) followed by BB (66%). Average yield was highest for SSA (15.1 t ha−1) followed by SL (14.5 t ha−1) and UFO (12.7 t ha). There were negative correlations between crop load and fruit dry matter content (r2 = 0.67 and 0.84) and total soluble solids (0.92 and 0.42) in 2019–2020 and 2020–2021, respectively. Our results indicate that sufficient space is required between uprights for lateral bearing cultivars when trained to a planar training system to achieve optimal light interception and fruit quality. This study provides improved understanding to enable the adoption of planar training systems for lateral fruiting cherry cultivars at high-density plantings.
Highlights
Development of dwarfing rootstocks for sweet cherry (Prunus avium) has enabled higher density planting with greater yield efficiencies driven, in part, by increased light interception [1]
As orchard growing systems evolve towards highdensity planar training systems with reduced row spacings, tree structures that optimise light interception will be crucial in achieving high yields of premium quality fruit
Results from this study indicate that when trees were at fourth and fifth leaf, the BB, tall spindle axe (TSA) and steep leader (SL)
Summary
Development of dwarfing rootstocks for sweet cherry (Prunus avium) has enabled higher density planting with greater yield efficiencies driven, in part, by increased light interception [1]. In addition to the influence of planting density, light interception depends on cultivar, tree shape and height, row orientation, leaf area index (LAI) and the length of the growing season [2]. Training of the tree canopy can maximise light interception to ensure production of optimum yields of high-quality fruit [3–5]. The selection of training systems that are suited to the growing environment optimises light interception. Hedgerow systems such as Bibaum (BB) are adapted to regions of abundant light and high temperatures coupled with long growing seasons. Planar 2D training systems minimise canopy light exposures during the hours when it is most extreme (solar noon)
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