Tree Training and Pruning Techniques

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts about tree training and pruning techniques.

Training

Cutting away a portion of a plant to provide shape, size, direction of growth, and structure of a fruit tree.

Benefits of training

Improves light interception, maintains tree size, enhances harvest efficiency, supports plant structure, improves fruit quality, and facilitates intercultural operations.

Central Leader System

A training system where the plant grows in a shape similar to a Christmas tree, with the main trunk as the central leader and branches arranged in tiers.

Open Center System

A training method that forms trees into a bowl or vase shape, with primary, secondary, and tertiary scaffolds to minimize self-shading.

Modified Central Leader

A training system where trees are initially trained as central leaders for a few years before transitioning to an open center after developing lateral branches.

Espalier System

A two-dimensional growth method where vertical stems support horizontal branches against a trellis.

Tatura Trellis

A training system where trees are tied to a trellis allowing for closer planting and facilitating mechanical harvesting.

Dwarf Pyramid

A training technique where branches start at a low height and are pruned extensively to maintain a compact size.

Chemical Training

Using chemicals like IBA and morphactins to alter plant growth responses, affecting direction of shoots and roots.

Thinning

The removal of shoots from their origin to improve sunlight interception and wind movement in plants.

Heading Back

Cutting back vigorous branches to promote new growth that encourages flowering and fruiting.

Skirting

Removing lower branches to prevent fruits and leaves from touching the ground, reducing pathogen attacks.

De-blossoming

The removal of excess flowers to improve fruit quality and encourage annual bearing in certain fruit varieties.

Lateral Bud Activation

Pruning removes apical dominance, allowing lateral buds to grow and control canopy architecture.

Dwarfing of Trees

Pruning reduces overall energy production and creates a lighter, smaller tree compared to unpruned trees.

Seasonal Pruning

Pruning that can be performed in spring/summer or during the dormant season to maintain tree health and shape.