Orchard Systems and Technologies

Orchard systems are the integration of fruit tree 1) scion genotypes having canopy architectural and fruit-bearing traits; 2) rootstock genotypes having nutrient- and water-acquisition and anchorage traits, as well as impacts on vegetative and reproductive canopy traits; and 3) production management strategies that include pruning, training, and support systems. Increasingly, components of orchard systems design are focused not only on yield and fruit quality, but also on facilitating labor efficiencies and the adoption of new orchard technologies that can improve crop management precision, decision-making, and mechanization. Additional components of orchard systems can include nursery tree production and technologies such as netting and covers that modify orchard climatic factors (e.g., air temperature, solar radiation, and exposure to rain, hail, and wind). Consequently, the scope of Working Group Orchard Systems and Technologies involves scientists and engineers working across the disciplines of horticulture, plant physiology, agricultural and bio-engineering, breeding and genetics, agro-ecology, functional-structural modeling, and digital agriculture.