Fruit trees

The production of stone and pome fruit trees faces a number of challenges, from changing climatic conditions to complexities in the supply chain and post-harvest. To address these problems, it is crucial to consider fertiliser and biostimulant solutions specifically designed to correct the negative effects of environmental, nutritional and phytotechnical stresses. These solutions will not only strengthen crop health, but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and profitability of stone and pome fruit growers.

Stone and Pome Fruit Varieties
Stone and pome fruit tree crops cover a wide range of species and subtypes, enriching the diversity of fruit farming. Among the stone fruit trees, we find peach, plum and cherry trees, each with different varieties such as peach, Santa Rosa plum and Bing cherry. On the other hand, pome fruit trees include apple, pear and quince trees, with varieties such as Fuji apple and Bartlett pear, conference, etc.

Climate and soil requirements in changing times
In the context of climate change, one of the most pressing challenges for stone and pome fruit tree crops is the reduction of chilling hours during winters. The traditional need for a period of exposure to low temperatures, known as chilling hours, is essential to induce dormancy and ensure adequate budding and flowering during the spring. However, the trend towards colder winters poses a significant risk to fruit production.

Lack of chilling hours compromises the ability of trees to emerge from dormancy efficiently, resulting in poor bud break and flowering. This phenomenon directly affects the quantity and quality of fruit produced, negatively impacting yields and profitability of stone and pome fruit crops.

In addition, low rainfall and lack of quality water are further challenges. The absence of adequate rainfall contributes to drought episodes, affecting the water supply necessary for healthy tree growth. Limited availability of quality water also influences the nutrient uptake capacity of trees, affecting their development and productivity. In this scenario, producers face the critical challenge of effectively managing water and nutrients to counteract the adverse effects of climate change. The implementation of efficient irrigation practices, the use of water conservation technologies and the selection of fertilisers and biostimulants adapted to stress conditions are essential to mitigate negative impacts on sprouting, flowering and fruit production.

Addressing these challenges proactively means not only facing new climatic realities, but also seeking innovative solutions that strengthen the resilience of stone and pome fruit crops in the face of ever-changing climate variability.

Stone and pome fruit trees are susceptible to various physiopathologies and nutritional disorders. Problems such as moniliasis on peach trees, bacterial spot on plum trees and scab on apple trees compromise growth and production. Nutritional imbalances, such as potassium deficiency in pear trees and calcium deficiency in quinces, affect the long-term health of the trees. Addressing these problems is essential to ensure healthy and productive crops.

Nutritional disorders, especially those resulting from deficient calcium absorption, represent a significant challenge for fruit tree crops such as peach, flat peach and apple. These disorders not only affect tree health, but also have a direct impact on fruit quality and yield.

Deficient calcium absorption in peach and flat peach trees can manifest itself in the phenomenon known as ‘split stone’. This disorder is characterised by the fracture of the stone inside the fruit, which affects its quality and commercial value. Lack of calcium during fruit development weakens the stone structure, compromising its integrity and leading to cracking. Addressing this problem is crucial to ensure optimal fruit quality.

In the case of apple trees, deficient calcium absorption can lead to a pathophysiological condition called ‘bitterpit’. This condition manifests itself as dark, bitter spots in the flesh of the apple, which reduces its visual appeal and flavour. Bitterpit is especially problematic in apple varieties that require a higher calcium content for proper development. Lack of this essential nutrient contributes to the development of bitter lesions, compromising the marketable quality of apples.

Stone and pome fruit growers face constant commercial challenges. From efficient resource management to market competition, the challenges are numerous. The need to meet quality standards, supply chain optimisation and consumer demand for sustainable products pose additional challenges. Comprehensive solutions are essential to overcome these obstacles and ensure the economic viability of producers.

Post-harvest challenges and market demands
The post-harvest of stone and pome fruit trees presents unique challenges, especially in terms of conservation and quality. Factors such as susceptibility to post-harvest diseases and the need to extend the shelf life of fruit call for innovative solutions. In addition, today's market demands fresh, healthy and environmentally friendly products. The implementation of conservation technologies and sustainable practices becomes crucial to meet these expectations.