Training systems for orchards high-density cherries from the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

The study was conducted between 2010 and 2024 in the central and northern fruit growing area of the Republic of Moldova to evaluate the effect of the cherry (Prunus avium L.) training system on fruit growth, yield and quality, comparing four training systems (Thin spindle; Cup; Kym Green Bush; Improved thin spindle) to five varieties (Early Star, Samba, Black Star, Kordia and Regina) grafted on Gisela 6 rootstocks, with trees planted at a distance of 4x1m and 4x2m. The crowns of the trees, at the age of 6-7 years, formed continuous rows in the direction of the row, covering the soil with the projection of the crown at 61-63.7%, having the lateral area of the crown of 21300-22450 thousand m2 /ha and the volume of the crown of 158 m3 /ha 153858-22450. During the fruiting period the trees have a slower growth rate compared to the growing period. The cumulative yield of the cultivar Samba 8.43-10.88 t/ha and Black Star 7.66-9.84 t/ha, grafted on Gisela 6, during the period of growth and fruiting of the trees was higher for the cherries formed according to the thin spindle crown.