The influence of planting density on the fruit quality and economic efficiency in the apple orchard

Abstract

The prospect presents a research which determines the optimum density limit for orchards. The author made an experience with planting scheme 4x1,5 m; 3x1,0; 3x0,66 m and 3x0,33m. The varieties Golden Delicious and Idared grafted on rootstock M9 were studied. High density planting promoted increase in productivity by 44-51% at a young age. In the variant where it was planted 10 000 tree/ha the share of the fruit of the highest category is reduced to 16-24%, that resulting decline in profitability to 149-246% compared with a controlled scheme.