RESPONSES OF PEACH-TREES TO MODIFIED PRUNING .2. CROPPING AND FRUIT-QUALITY

Four main cultivars of peach trees (Prunus persica L.) grown in China were pruned in winter by a ''long pruning'' technique (LP), and compared with the traditional ''short pruning'' technique (SP) near Beijing, China. Cropping and fruit quality were improved on the trees pruned by LP when compared with traditionally pruned trees: there was earlier cropping for young trees and higher yield on mature trees, as increased resistance of flowers to late frost in spring; excellent fruit quality with a higher content of total soluble solids and improved colour. Pruning time was saved by LP. Finally, the biological fundamentals and some cultural techniques in orchard management are discussed for LP trees.