Matching rootstock and scion genetics to environmental and management factors is essential for establishing a winning orchard. By Anna Mouton. Rootstock selection begins with a vision of the winning orchard, according to soil scientist Mico Stander of agricultural consultancy Agrimotion.…
Ever-evolving apple production systems in a diverse Western Cape environment require a continued focus on optimising tree nutrition. By Anna Mouton. Mineral-uptake characteristics aren’t a primary consideration in rootstock selection, but growers should be aware of the interactions between rootstocks,…
Apple rootstocks directly and indirectly impact fruit’s mineral content and the risk of nutrient-related disorders. By Anna Mouton. “It all starts in the soil, but the soil is often not the main factor driving nutrient-related disorders — it’s the plant’s…
A 20-year journey has validated their decision to transition from industrial agriculture to farming in harmony with nature. By Anna Mouton. The family-owned ZZ2 group began thinking about a different approach to food production back in the 1990s. “We started…
New Zealand apple growers are maximising profitability by improving fruit quality and uniformity. By Anna Mouton. “Our goal is consistency of targeted fruit that will pay top dollar,” said Craig Hornblow. He is an AgFirst founder with nearly 40 years…
Design planting systems that are simple, narrow, accessible, productive, and enduring. By Anna Mouton. “Orchard systems are not about what we know right now,” said horticultural consultant Craig Hornblow. “Every time we plant a tree, we’re planting with the belief…
The highlights of the panel discussion about the South African pear industry’s status and prospects. By Anna Mouton. The panel covered topics ranging from rootstocks to netting. The edited transcript below summarises the main points, and the entire session can…
How the largest contiguous European apple-growing region stays up to date with new cultivar developments. By Anna Mouton. South Tyrol is the northernmost province of Italy. It has a population of 530 000 and an area of 7 400 km2 — about…
Success in spring depends on skilfully managing beehives during the rest of the year. By Anna Mouton. It’s easy to forget about bees outside the brief period when self-incompatible fruit trees are flowering. But the delivery of hives is preceded…
How to think about cross-pollination when planning orchards. By Anna Mouton. Effective cross-pollination is crucial for maximising productivity of self-incompatible deciduous-fruit orchards over their lifetime. This article shares insights on cross-pollinator selection and management from horticultural adviser and plant breeder…