This manual shows the orchardist, step-by-step how to develop and train the branchless multi–leader apple tree.
The branchless multi–leader apple tree is a relatively new training system in Australia and will be progressively updated.
Over 200 pages of information, photos and illustrations
The branchless multi–leader tree is a good example of a controlled canopy with good distribution of sunlight.
This poses new challenges for orchardists. Hence, orchardists need a manual that complements our current manuals on apples.
What you will find in this manual
Trees & canopy
- The problems with branches
- Benefits of a branchless multi-leader tree
- Different parts of a branchless tree - fruiting units, spurs - vegetative/fruiting
- Upright vs angled canopies
- Number of leaders per tree
- Rootstock choice
- Polliniser varieties
- Branchless four-leader tree
Pruning
- Renewal pruning
- 1,2,3 rule
- Spur pruning
Tree training
- First year two leaders/tree - leader selection, guiding the leaders, tree support, shoot removal
- Year 2 - remove blossom & fruit, create fruiting units, support leaders, deal with strong shoots
- Year 3 - Create fruiting units, plucking, scoring
- Crop load management - pruning, thinning
Management
- Biennial bearing
- Watercore
- Skin russet
- How do apples turn red or pink?
- Water and stress
- Scion rooting
- Nine fruit maturity tests
Crop protection
- Apple replant disease (ARD)
- Crown gall
- Hail net and bee activity
- Sunburn, overhead cooling
- Phytophthora
Soil preparation
- Soil test, Grading, Apply lime, gypsum, rip & cultivate, Hill up soil surface, Sow ryegrass/let weeds develop, Spray out ryegrass/weeds before planting
Nutrition
- Calcium in the soil, tree and fruit
- Replacing nutrient losses
- Nitrogen applications
- Avoid making soil acidic
- Soil organic matter
$55.00
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$55.00