The use of semi-dwarfing rootstocks has increased the orchard productivity, leading to the creation of high and super-high density cherry orchard. In addition to planting density, light interception is affected by cultivar, tree shape and height, row orientation, leaf area index, and seasonal vegetative growth.
Thus, choosing an appropriate training system could result in increased light interception, leading to increased production and fruit quality. Indeed, we should remember that excessive canopy shading results in reduced fruiting, decreased fruit weight, poor color development, and low total soluble solids content.
Light interception is optimized by choosing breeding systems suited to the growing environment. Bibaum systems, for example, are well adapted to areas with abundant light, high temperatures, and extended growing seasons. 2D planar farming systems reduce canopy exposure to light during the most intense hours (solar noon), thus protecting the developing fruit from overexposure to light.
The research we are presenting you today was carried out at the University of Tasmania.
In this study, the performance of different breeding forms of 'Kordia' grafted on 'Krymsk 5' (semi-dwarfing rootstock) was evaluated. The training systems evaluated were the 2D planar training systems of upright fruiting offshoot (UFO), super spindle axe (SSA), tall spindle axe (TSA), Bibaum (BB), and steep leader (SL) over two seasons.
In the two seasons, light interception was highest in UFO and SL (69% of incident light) and lowest in BB (66%). SSA had the highest yield (15.1 t ha), followed by SL (14.5 t ha) and UFO (12.7 t ha).
In terms of fruit quality, this study confirms that at the same crop load conditions, there is a strong correlation between light interception and dry matter and soluble solids content. In addition, when lateral-bearing cultivars (such as Kordia) are grown in planar form, adequate spacing between uprights is necessary to achieve optimal light interception and fruit quality.
Fonte: CH Stone, DC Close, SA Bound, I Hunt (2022). Training systems for sweet cherry: Light relations, fruit yield and quality. Agronomy, 2022.
Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)
20 Aug 2024
The agreement extends the retailer's partnership with Marshall Farms through its supplier Scotty Brand. The manufacturer now supplies fruit for both its own-brand and Scotty Brand packages, increasing the volume by approximately three million cherries per season.
27 Jun 2024
Calcium intervenes in the early stages of crack formation. When applied, it promotes the cross-linking of cell wall components, which in turn modulates enzyme activity. This results in a stronger cell wall.
02 Apr 2025
Thermal imaging is an innovative method to monitor water stress in 'Regina' cherry trees. Optimising irrigation, improving water management and reducing water wastage, without compromising productivity and fruit quality.
02 Apr 2025
Gene Drive could revolutionise biological control of Drosophila suzukii, the red-eyed midge that threatens cherry trees and small fruits. Find out how this advanced biotechnology could lead to the collapse of the pest's population.
