Training and pruning of sweet cherry on Gisela 6 rootstock

Abstract

To establish an optimal technological system in the Central zone of the Republic of Moldova by evaluating the interaction between cultivar, training systems, and pruning methods to maximize productivity and fruit quality. Methods: The study was conducted during 2025-2026 at "Prodcar" LLC, Telenești, on two experimental sectors: Sector I (16 years old): Ferovia and Skeena cultivars (4x2 m), testing 4 training systems and 4 pruning variants (manual vs. mechanized). Sector II (8 years old): Folfer, Ferdouce, Royal Helen, Grace Star, and Samba cultivars (4x1 m), comparing the Slender Spindle and Marchand Flag systems. Automated weather stations, drip irrigation, and Watermark sensors were used for soil moisture monitoring.