Narrow orchard systems for pome and stone fruit—a review

Abstract

The main characteristics of Narrow Orchard Systems (NOS) are (i) narrow canopies, with (ii) multiple closely-spaced upright leaders and (iii) narrow inter-rows, regardless of tree spacing within the row. In NOS, planting density can be reduced compared with super-high and ultra-high density planting systems on dwarfing rootstocks, utilising a wider range of rootstock vigours coupled to proportional increases in both within-row tree spacing and upright leader number per tree. This paper reviews the development of NOS and results of research carried out on apple, pear, sweet cherry, peach, nectarine, apricot and plum in production regions worldwide. The history of orchard intensification and the evolution of narrow-canopy multileader orchard systems is presented. Implications of NOS for light interception and distribution, yield and fruit quality are discussed. These systems require a solid understanding of crop and cultivar fruiting and vegetative habits, and their interactions with rootstock, environment and management practices. Whilst NOS improve productivity (yield and fruit quality), labour use efficiency and mechanisation, they often require additional labour in the first two years from planting. They are robot-ready systems that will promote transition towards increased digitisation in horticulture. Current developments with new experiments and demonstrations carried out in Australia are discussed. With an increasing body of research supporting the advantages of NOS, this literature review summarises the latest findings and identifies some opportunities for further research and innovation.

Topics & Concepts