Orchard

Orchard floor management decisions impact the health of fruit trees and overall production and quality of fruit. Soil condition, nutrient availability, water management, weed control, insect habitat, and prevalence of rodents all influence the growth, development and productivity of fruit trees. Organic growers have some extra challenges managing the orchard floor, especially with weed control, since they are not allowed to use synthetic herbicides. Fruit trees require fertile soil, with good structure and water holding and irrigation. The orchard floor combinations and management decisions are unique to each site and variety.