The productivity and economic comparison of high-density production systems for 'Cripps Pink' and 'Cripps Red' apples in South Australia

Abstract

A trial was established at Lenswood, South Australia (34°57'S) in 1999 to compare the productivity and economic performance of a range of high-density systems for the apple cultivars 'Cripps Pink' (Pink Lady TM) and 'Cripps Red' (Sundowner TM). Trees were on MM.106, M.26, Ottawa.3 (O.3) and M.9 (EMLA) rootstocks at densities of 2000-6666 trees/ha, and trained to four different systems (Closed V, Open V, Tall Spindle and Super Spindle). Densities of 2000 to 3555 trees/ha were the most economical. Higher densities than these had lower Internal Rates of Return and Net Present Values for the increased capital invested. The commercial performance of 'Cripps Pink' trees on M.26 and M.9 rootstocks was superior to O.3 and MM.106. There were difficulties in obtaining high yields with O.3. Problems with vigour management and fruit size reduced the economic performance of MM.106, particularly at densities of 4000 trees/ha and higher. The economic performance of 'Cripps Red' trees was best on M.26 rootstock. Insufficient tree size and associated lower yields reduced the economic performance of 'Cripps Red' on M.9. For both cultivars, M.26 was the most labour efficient rootstock in terms of labour usage per tonne of fruit produced. The single row trellis systems (Tall Spindle and Super Spindle) economically out-performed the V trellis systems. An e×ception was the Open V trellis at 3555 trees/ha, which was the most economically superior system tested. For 'Cripps Pink', the Open V system had better economic performance than the Closed V system.