Precision management in tart cherry orchards: the impact of soil variability on canopy density and yield

27 Jun 2024
796

In a recent study focusing on the relationship between soil variability, canopy density, and yield in tart cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) orchards in Utah, researchers explored how variations in soil properties influence tree growth and productivity. A team from Utah State University conducted the study by examining four tart cherry orchards near Santaquin, Utah.

These orchards were selected for their different soil characteristics and canopy structures, which were mapped and analyzed to understand how soil texture affects orchard performance.

The researchers measured the apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) of the soil as an indicator of soil texture, salinity, and organic matter content. The data collected through this method allowed the creation of detailed maps, which were crucial for identifying spatial variability within each orchard.

These maps revealed significant correlations between ECa and soil texture components such as sand, silt, and clay. Particularly, areas with higher ECa often corresponded to higher clay content.

Canopy density was another critical aspect monitored during the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons. Using ceptometry and drone imagery, the researchers assessed the light interception by the canopy, which correlates with the leaf area index (LAI) and overall canopy density. These measurements demonstrated that variations in canopy density could be directly linked to the soil texture variability identified through ECa mapping.

The study's findings showed that soil texture plays a crucial role in determining canopy characteristics. Areas with more clay-rich soils exhibited denser canopies, suggesting that these zones could potentially support higher yields. However, the relationship between canopy density and actual yield requires further investigation: the yield data from the 2023 season are still being analyzed before establishing definitive connections.

One of the most significant implications of this research is the potential for precision orchard management. By understanding the spatial variability of soil and its impact on canopy and yield, growers could implement site-specific management practices. These may include variable-rate applications of water, fertilizers, and other inputs adapted to the soil conditions of different orchard zones.

Such strategies could enhance uniformity across the orchard, optimize resource use, and ultimately increase productivity and profitability.

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the practical utility of ECa mapping in managing tart cherry orchards and beyond. The ability to create high-resolution soil texture maps provides a valuable tool for making “more informed” management decisions, which can lead to improved orchard performance through the right inputs.

The study conducted in Utah offers promising prospects for implementing precision agriculture techniques that can help optimize orchard management.

Source: Wedegaertner, K., Black, B., Safre, A., Lilligren, C., Cardon, G. and Torres-Rua, A. (2024). Assessing the relationship between soil variability, canopy density, and yield in Utah tart cherry orchards. Acta Hortic. 1395, 157-162, https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2024.1395.21
Image: SL Fruit Service

Andrea Giovannini
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Cherry Growers Australia reports exports up 43% at end of season, thanks in part to India partnership

Markets

05 Apr 2024

"The country recorded a 43% increase in exports this 2023-2024 season," says Wayne Prowse, director of Cherry Growers Australia, "exceeding 4,000 tonnes was good. But it is still not the growth to return to 2017-2020 levels."

Teno Pack leads the first processing line in 2023, but much attention to the fruit fly

Markets Press review

11 Jan 2024

The operation by Teno Group, which started on 23 October, processed and packed around 300 tonnes of fruit during the month and a half that the operation lasted. However, the presence of fruit flies prevented aerial shipments of cherries to China in November.

In evidenza

Native cherry trees better support local moths in Massachusetts landscapes

Crop protection

01 Jul 2025

A scientific study confirms native moths thrive best on cherry trees native to Massachusetts. Non-native species slow growth and raise mortality in larvae. Native trees are crucial for preserving biodiversity and supporting birds and insects in gardens and cities.

How genetics shapes cherry flavor: from sweet sorbitol to tart malic acid

Breeding

01 Jul 2025

Researchers from Clemson University and Spain’s CITA discovered the genetic basis of sweetness and acidity in sweet cherries. With QTL mapping and haplotype analysis, breeders can now develop better-tasting, more stable varieties tailored to consumer preferences in Europe.

Tag Popolari