Sustainable orchard management, fruit quality and carbon footprint

This paper discusses some key issues of sustainable kiwifruit production by addressing a number of orchard practices with the multiple objectives of improving fruit quality, increasing soil fertility and minimising the environmental impacts of kiwifruit production. Increasing soil-carbon inputs by recycling prunings and cover-crop biomass and by the application of composts all contribute to the build-up of soil carbon. They also enhance soil-water retention and fertility and fruit yield and quality. The need for an improved methodology for assessment of the carbon footprint of kiwifruit production is discussed including aspects of orchard management which will improve soil carbon inputs. This paper focuses on mineral nutrition, providing information for the development of a best fertilisation plan. In particular, it offers advice on how to improve fruit calcium nutrition. A criterion is proposed for optimal irrigation scheduling based on the concept of a soil-water threshold above which soil water should be maintained at all times. The volume of soil explored by the roots of young vines is discussed with a view to increasing irrigation efficiency.