Fruit tree pruning technology
Fruit tree pruning is an important part of orchard management, which directly affects fruit yield and tree health. Scientific pruning methods can not only optimize the tree structure, but also improve photosynthetic efficiency and promote flower bud differentiation. This article will systematically explain the core technologies and operating specifications of fruit tree pruning through a combination of pictures and texts. The core method system of fruit tree pruning technical points of short-cut pruning requires retaining 3-5 full buds at the base of the branch, and the cutting edge is 0.5cm away from the bud eye at a 45-degree angle. It is recommended to use medium and short cutting (cut off 1/3) for deciduous fruit trees, and light and short cutting (cut off 1/4) for evergreen tree species. The pruning amount of young trees should not exceed 30% of the total branch weight to avoid delaying fruit bearing. Pecking operation specifications When the new tip reaches 15-20cm long, Pecking shall be carried out, and 8-12 functional leaves shall be retained. Pome fruits such as apples and pears are picked from late May to early June, while stone fruits are recommended to stop operating for a long time in spring shoots. Combined with tip twisting can promote the formation of fruiting branch groups in lateral buds. The leaf area index of adult fruit trees should be maintained between 3-4, and the spacing between branches should be maintained between 30-40cm. When thinning overlapping branches, crossing branches, and pest branches, follow the principle of "removing the lower and leaving the upper, removing the weak and leaving the strong." The amount of pruning after falling leaves shall not exceed 25% of the total branch weight. Supporting management measures for fruit tree pruning Equipment disinfection and wound treatment pruning tools need to be soaked and disinfected in 5% sodium hypochlorite solution, and cutting edges with a diameter of more than 2 cm should be coated with healing agents. Spray mancozeb within 7 days after spring pruning to prevent bacterial infection, and increase the frequency of applying protectants during rainy seasons. Seasonal management differences Winter pruning is mainly based on shaping, while summer pruning focuses on regulating growth. Deciduous fruit trees in the north should be completed before the sap flows from January to March, and evergreen tree species such as citrus should be carried out within 15 days after fruit harvesting. Special varieties such as grapes require bi-season pruning.
Scientific pruning of fruit trees requires combining variety characteristics, tree age structure and site conditions. It is recommended to formulate a pruning plan every year and keep growth records. By rational use of the three major technologies of shortening, pinching, and thinning, in conjunction with standardized equipment management and seasonal operations, the economic benefits of orchards can be effectively improved by more than 30%.