Apple tree growth and yield in alternative ground management systems

Dwarf apple tree growth and yield under several non-herbicidal ground management systems were compared. Six ground cover systems were established in two newly planted orchards. After two growing seasons, trees in the straw mulch and geotextile mulch treatments had larger trunk cross-sectional areas and more shoot growth than trees in the red fescue and insectary plant cover treatments. Growth of trees under the manure mulch and cultivation treatments was intermediate. When four of the systems were established along rows of five-year old trees in an existing orchard, the increase in trunk cross-sectional area over two growing seasons was greatest for trees in the manure mulch and straw mulch followed by tose in geotextile mulch, trees in the red fescue grew least. The use of a mulch, such as straw or geotextile, has a favourable effect on growth and has potential for use in organic orchards