Ppt on High Density Planting Systems And Management In Apple Orchards

High Density Planting (HDP) in apple involves increasing tree population per unit area to enhance productivity, fruit quality, and resource use efficiency. This approach utilizes dwarfing rootstocks, specialized training systems, and precise canopy management. HDP is a key innovation in modern apple orcharding, enabling early returns and improved orchard management. Important academic keywords: rootstock, canopy management, training systems, productivity, bioregulators.
Introduction to High Density Planting (HDP) in Apple
  • HDP increases plant population per unit area for higher fruit yield.
  • Addresses low productivity and long gestation periods in traditional orchards.
  • Enables early returns and efficient land use.
Types and Categories of HDP in Apple
  • Semi-intensive: 500–1,000 trees/ha.
  • Intensive: 1,000–10,000 trees/ha.
  • Super-intensive: 10,000–100,000 trees/ha.
  • Apple-specific: Low (<250), Moderate (250–500), High (500–1,250), Ultra-high (>1,250 trees/ha).
  • Meadow orcharding: 20,000–70,000 trees/ha.
Key Components of HDP in Apple
  • Use of dwarf scion varieties and dwarfing/semi-dwarfing rootstocks.
  • Efficient training and pruning systems.
  • Application of plant growth regulators.
  • Adoption of suitable crop management practices.
Advantages of High Density Planting
  • Maximizes land and resource utilization.
  • Increases yield per unit area.
  • Improves fruit quality and uniformity.
  • Facilitates easier intercultural operations, plant protection, and harvesting.
  • Enables production of export-quality fruit.
Common Rootstocks for HDP in Apple
  • Dwarfing/semi-dwarfing: M.9, M.26, M.4, M.7, MM.106.
  • Meadow orchards: M.27.
  • Spur types: MM.106, MM.109, M.7.
  • Non-spur types: MM.111.
  • Jammu & Kashmir: MM.106 preferred.
Promising Spur Varieties for HDP
  • Starkrimson, Red Spur, Gold Spur, Well Spur, Oregon Spur.
  • Silver Spur, Red Chief, Bright ‘N’ Early, Royal Gala, Red Fuji.
Training Systems in HDP Apple Orchards
  • Spindle bush, Dwarf pyramid, Espalier, Cordon, Palmette, Noord Holland Spindle bush.
  • Vertical Axis and Tall Spindle systems are widely used.
  • Training begins at planting and continues throughout tree life.
Vertical Axis System
  • 500–1,000 trees/acre; uses dwarfing rootstocks.
  • Central leader with 4 evenly spaced branches.
  • Remove branches within 45 cm (18") of soil and those with narrow angles.
  • Branch angles adjusted to 60° for optimal light interception.
Tall Spindle System
  • 1,000–1,500 trees/acre; dwarfing rootstocks.
  • Early fruiting (2nd–3rd year).
  • No permanent scaffolds; branches renewed as needed.
  • Upper branches bent below horizontal to reduce vigor.
Canopy Management Principles in HDP
  • Optimize light interception and distribution within the canopy.
  • Balance vegetative and reproductive growth for high productivity.
  • Control tree size using dwarfing rootstocks and pruning.
  • Maintain tree health and fruit quality.
Use of Bioregulators in HDP
  • Growth retardants: paclobutrazol, chlormequat chloride, uniconazole, Alar (daminozide), Ethrel.
  • Reduce vegetative growth and enhance fruit set.
  • Alter assimilate partitioning towards reproductive organs.
  • Improve fruit size, color, and quality.
Selecting Rootstocks for Different Scion Vigors
  • Vigorous scions: Use highly dwarfing rootstocks (M.9, B.9) and wider spacing.
  • Weak scions: Use more vigorous dwarfing rootstocks (M.26) and closer spacing.
  • M.26 is popular for intermediate densities.
Summary and Integrated Management in HDP Apple
  • Combine suitable rootstocks, training systems, and bioregulators for optimal results.
  • Regular pruning and canopy management are essential.
  • Monitor tree health and adjust practices as needed for sustained productivity.