Orchard duck farming, when combined with fruit tree cultivation, creates a mutually beneficial system that reduces planting costs and enhances economic returns. This integrated approach not only supports sustainable agriculture but also improves the overall productivity of the orchard. Here are the key technical aspects to consider:
The best time for restocking ducks in the orchard is during the peak growth season of both plants and animals, typically from mid-April (before Qingming to the period before the rains) until late October. During this time, the orchard is rich in grass, fallen fruits, and insect populations, providing ample natural food sources for the ducks. Ducks can graze on grasses, wild vegetables, leaves, and even insect eggs or larvae. Adult ducks can be kept throughout the year, depending on the availability of feed.
Orchard ducks are generally not able to damage fruit trees, making them ideal for low-intensity grazing. Orchards with good soil and water conditions—such as apple, pear, apricot, hawthorn, persimmon, and walnut trees—are suitable for duck stocking. Ducks help control weeds naturally, while their droppings act as organic fertilizer, promoting healthier fruit growth. This method is particularly effective for transforming overgrown, unmanaged, or pest-infested orchards into high-quality, high-yield systems.
Stocking density should be carefully managed based on the size of the ducks and the condition of the orchard. A general guideline is to keep 20–30 ducks per mu of land, which translates to approximately 2,000–3,000 ducks for 100 mu. Overstocking should be avoided to prevent overgrazing and ensure the health of both the ducks and the orchard.
Supplementary feeding plays an important role, especially during the early stages of duck rearing. Ducklings are typically introduced to the orchard at four weeks old and need to be brooded initially. They are often raised in cages and fed twice daily—once in the morning and once in the evening. The amount of feed should be adjusted based on the ducklings’ energy needs, with the goal of encouraging free-range eating. As they grow, their diet can be adjusted based on what they naturally consume, such as weeds, insects, or small creatures in the orchard. At night, after returning to the shed, additional feed should be provided, along with clean drinking water.
Disease prevention is crucial in any duck farming system. Following a “preventive first†approach, regular vaccinations and hygiene practices are essential to avoid outbreaks. Farmers should monitor the ducks closely and maintain a clean environment to reduce the risk of illness.
When using pesticides in the orchard, it’s important to avoid highly toxic chemicals that could harm the ducks. If spraying is necessary, low-toxicity, high-efficiency pesticides or diluted fungicides should be used instead. During these periods, ducks should be kept away from the area, either by fencing or by temporarily relocating them. Before introducing young ducks to the orchard, they should be acclimated gradually to the outdoor environment to ensure they adapt well. During restricted grazing periods, supplementary feeding can be increased to support their nutritional needs.
Lemon Tea
DIYAS development Limited , https://www.diyastea.com