Intenzivna tehnologija gajenja jabuke u sistemu 3,0 × 0,6 m

Apple technology has changed considerably over the last years. In 2018, we witnessed an above-average apple yield, which significantly reduced the price of apples. The apple producers who achieved large and high-quality yields were more or less able to cover the production costs that year, while other growers seriously began considering ceasing apple production. In practically all European countries, apple orchards have undergone an intensive process of shrinkage, and at the same time, production in existing orchards has been intensified. New apple training systems must accompany changes in society, particularly the workforce and the green ecology, and ultimately achieve large and high-quality yields that allow the grower to earn a normal income and continue their development. For this reason, fruit growers all over the world are introducing new planting and training systems based on new knowledge about apple growth and development. A detailed overview of a high-density planting system of 3.0 × 0.6 m will be presented, from planting in the first year to full fruiting in the third-fourth year, and up to the 15th year. The dense planting system is simple and does not require trained labour. Disease and pest control is more effective due to a narrow crown, which allows a more precise pesticide application. Controlling the growth of apple trees is easier, as higher exposure to light allows high and quality yields every year. To achieve these results, precise technological measures [land preparation, choice of cultivar and rootstock, timing and depth of planting, pruning after planting, fertilization through soil and leaves, fruit thinning, hormone control from 30 days after flowering to harvest, foliar treatments before (P, K, Mg, Zn, Si, Mn) and after (N, P, K, B) harvest for flower buds differentiation] should be conducted on time.