Current trends and future perspectives towards sustainable and economically viable peach training systems

Abstract

Considering the limited areas suitable for peach cultivation, the short life cycle of the orchards, as well as aspects regarding appropriate rootstock availability and soil properties due to replant conditions, the sustainable intensification became increasingly necessary on peach production systems. Based on the local environment and labor availability, two new training systems have been introduced and are being widely adopted towards efficient small canopies for high- and medium-density orchards, respectively. The so-called two-dimensional (2-D) fruiting wall is an intensive, highly-mechanized/high-density training system and is commonly accompanied by multifunctional net protection in order to counteract the adverse effects of climate change. On the other hand, the medium-density three dimensional (3-D) small open vase is suitable for low frost-risk areas and farms with fully available manpower. In both cases, the decisions taken during the orchard establishment and the first years regarding soil fertility and orchard mechanization have strategic importance to guarantee a sustainable peach production system on both quantitative and qualitative terms. The employment of both spring and summer pruning increases work efficiency and improves fruit quality, as well as fruit thinning, management efficiency and mechanization. Sustainable intensification not only reshapes the use of chemicals and irrigation, but also weed control and soil amendment with organic matter to support the complexity and heterogeneity of the agroecosystem with the circular economy.