Some Observations from Sweet Cherry Orchard Established with Different Training Systems

Abstract

For a successful growing of cherries, the correct cultivar-rootstock combination, training system, and environmental conditions must be compatible. In recent years, cherry cultivation is mostly done with dwarf rootstocks and high-density training systems. The study was carried out in the trial area of Ondokuz Mayıs University Bafra Agricultural Research Center from 2014 to 2022. ‘0900 Ziraat’, ‘Regina’ and ‘Summit’ cultivars were used as cultivars. ‘Starks Gold’ cultivar was used as pollinator. Tall Spindle Axe (TSA), Super Spindle Axe (SSA), Upright Fruiting Offshoots (UFO), Kym Green Bush (KGB), and Vogel Central Leader (VG) training systems were used in the experiment. In the experiment, trees on Gisela 6, PHL-C and M×M 14 were planted in 2014, and those on CAB 6P in 2016. Drought in the spring of 2014 caused the death of trees on PHL-C and M×M 14. So, these combinations were planted again in 2015. In these combinations in 2014-2022, observations were made on phenological periods, training systems, cultivars, and rootstocks. Some experiences were shared on pruning and training practices. In addition, Observations about the 2014 spring drought, which caused the death of many trees, and root rot (Armillaria mellea), which caused deaths in the following years, were investigated. In the study, all these observations, experiences and investigations were discussed shortly and presented. © 2024 International Society for Horticultural Science. All rights reserved.