The American hybrid apricot plum is a remarkable fruit tree, known for its vibrant fruit color, sweet and rich flavor, high soluble solids content, strong resistance to storage, and adaptability to various growing conditions. To ensure optimal growth and productivity, proper shaping and pruning techniques are essential. Below are detailed methods for plastic surgery (training) and pruning.
First, tree shaping: Based on the growth characteristics and species habits of the American hybrid apricot plum, the ideal tree structure is either a multi-tiered natural happy shape or a double-layer open heart shape. In the multi-tiered system, the trunk should be kept at about 50 cm in height, with 4–5 main branches arranged around it, each extending at a 45-degree angle. Each main branch should have 2–3 lateral branches, which should be positioned at a 60-degree angle. The training process begins after planting by cutting the trunk at 60–70 cm. Once new shoots reach about 30 cm in length, select 5–7 of them to grow further, removing the rest. When these shoots reach 50 cm, choose 4–5 evenly spaced ones as main branches, while pinching back the others. During winter pruning, shorten the main branches to 50 cm and allow the rest to grow slowly. From the second year onward, gradually develop 2–3 lateral branches 50 cm above the base of the main branches.
In the double-layer open heart system, the trunk is also kept at 50 cm, with two layers of main branches. The first layer consists of three main branches, each with 3–4 lateral branches, spaced 80–100 cm apart, with an opening angle of 60–80 degrees. The second layer includes two main branches, with shoots directly developed from the main branches. Training involves several steps: first, dry pruning to a height of 70 cm, then selecting 3–4 well-placed branches as main ones. Winter pruning involves shortening the main branches to 50 cm and allowing the rest to grow slowly. In the second or third year, when pruning the lower branches, leave buds on the upper side to encourage the formation of an upper canopy. Throughout the process, balance between thinning and slow release is crucial.
Summer pruning is important to manage excessive growth. Since the American hybrid apricot plum often produces short fruiting spurs and bouquet-like clusters, most varieties are sensitive to heavy pruning. Therefore, summer pruning should focus on thinning rather than cutting. Remove overlapping, sprouting, and dense inner branches, as well as upright branches on the back to improve air circulation and light penetration. Key techniques include: topping branches in late April to mid-May to encourage secondary growth, picking the tip of vigorous branches in mid-June to reduce vigor and promote flowering, ring cutting (girdling) around mid-May for overly vigorous trees, pulling branches from mid-May to mid-June to achieve desired angles, and thinning out competing, drooping, or leggy branches. Also, remove any unwanted suckers during the budding period to concentrate nutrients on the main tree.
Winter pruning should follow the principle of “light shear and slow release.†Extension branches of the main branches should be pruned to about 50–60 cm, while side branches on the main branches should be shortened to around 40 cm to form fruiting branches. Other branches should be left to grow slowly, with some allowed to flatten if needed. Remove thin, dense, or crossing branches. When making cuts, always select the next bud or a lateral bud to maintain the hierarchy between the main and lateral branches. This approach ensures balanced growth and long-term productivity.
Tuna Loin
Tuna Loin,Frozen Tuna Loin,Fresh Tuna Loin,Yellowfin Tuna Loin
ZHEJIANG RETRONX FOODSTUFF INDUSTRY CO.,LTD , https://www.retronxfoods.com