canopy management in fruit crops - Department of Agriculture & Co ...

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Kiwi fruit
Training of kiwi vine is very important, requiring constant attention. The main aim of
its training is to establish and maintain a well formed framework of main branches
and fruiting arms. Since vegetative growth and
fruit load in kiwi fruits are heavier than grape,
they require stronger supporting structure and
heavier pruning to produce quality fruits with
regular yield every year.
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A single wire fence commonly adopted
through another wire is sometimes provided
by some growers and then structure takes
the form of kniffin system at 2m height
above the ground on concrete pillars.
A cross arm (1.5m) on the pole also carries two outrigger wires.
This training is known as T-bar or overhead trellis / telephone system.
Strong trunk laden with fruits
Canopy Management in Fruit Crops
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The laterals arising from the main branch are
trained on canopy of 3 wires. A flat topped
network or criss-cross wires is prepared to
train vines on pergola or bower system.
The system is costly and difficult to manage
but gives higher yield.
Initial training system
A strong growing shoot is selected as a main
trunk to carry the vine up to the wire. The
trunk is staked to provide support and tied
at frequent intervals, so that it does not twist
around and grows straight.
When the vine attains a height of 2m and reaches near the wire, one permanent
leader can be allowed to grow out in each direction along with central wire.