Articles
AN ANALYSIS OF GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF PEACH TREES
Photosynthesis is stimulated in leaves with fruit nearby and during periods of high assimilate demand created by periods of active growth by the fruit.
Consequently fruit distribution in relation to light distribution and illumination of elements of the canopy can influence the overall productivity of the canopy.
Harvest index varies widely with tree age and cultural conditions.
Photoassimilate distribution is regulated by the relative sink strengths of the vegetative tree and developing fruit which are controlled by separate and independent mechanisms in the competing organs.
After fruit bud initiation, fruit set and growth are controlled by organs, tissues and events within the fruit.
On the other hand, vegetative vigour and competitive potential is determined by the growth rate of the root system in relation to the size of the tree (or its root system), or the relative growth rate (RGR) of the root system.
Several approaches can be used to suppress root activity in the spring which reduces vegetative vigour and increases productivity.
Rooting volume can be limited by natural and artificial barriers in the soil, by root competition from neighbouring plants or by controlling the spread and penetration of irrigation water.
These effects can be manipulated to greatly enhance the harvest index and manageability of peach orchards.