Principles and Methods of Training in Fruit Crops

1. Introduction

• Training is one of the most important horticultural practices in the establishment and management of fruit trees.
  It is performed mainly during the early stages of plant growth to develop a strong framework, proper shape, and efficient canopy structure.
• Training influences the form, productivity, longevity, and management efficiency of fruit trees.
  A properly trained tree is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly productive and easy to manage.

2. Definition

• Training is the art and science of directing the growth and form of a plant by controlling the position, orientation, and number of branches to obtain a desired shape, structure, and framework.
• It involves practices like bending, tying, heading, pinching, and thinning of shoots to achieve a strong and balanced canopy.

3. Objectives of Training

4. Principles of Training

Training should be carried out scientifically following certain fundamental principles:

• Establish a single, strong central stem or trunk (leader) in the early stages.
• Develop well-spaced scaffold branches — primary branches should arise at 30–45 cm above ground level.
• Maintain wide crotch angles (45–60°) between the trunk and branches for strength.
• Avoid narrow crotches (<30°) as they are weak and prone to breakage.
• Balance branch distribution around the trunk to maintain symmetry.
• Ensure uniform sunlight penetration to all parts of the canopy.
• Remove rootstock sprouts, suckers, or water shoots early.
• Train during the early years (1–3 years) when the tree is flexible and easy to shape.
• Keep the height manageable — do not allow trees to grow excessively tall.
• Select training system based on species, growth habit, and climate.

5. Methods (Systems) of Training

The training system refers to the specific pattern or shape given to the tree for developing a desirable framework.
Different fruit crops require different systems depending on their growth habit, vigor, and purpose.

 Training Systems for Tree Fruits

1. Open Center System (Vase-Shaped System)

• Central leader is removed early, allowing lateral branches to form an open, bowl-shaped canopy.
• Provides maximum sunlight and air circulation inside the canopy.
• Suitable for low, spreading trees.
• Examples: Peach, Plum, Ber, Aonla, Guava, Apricot.
• Advantages: Good light penetration. Easy spraying and harvesting.
• Disadvantages: Weak structure; prone to wind damage.

2. Central Leader System

• Tree maintains a single, upright main trunk (leader) with laterals arranged spirally around it.
• Gives a pyramidal shape — wide base, narrow top.
• Strong structure and long-lived tree.
• Examples: Mango, Sapota, Pear, Cherry.
• Advantages: Strong central axis; resists wind. Suitable for vigorous, upright species.
• Disadvantages: Shading in lower branches; less light inside canopy.

3. Modified Central Leader System

• Combination of open center and central leader.
• Leader allowed to grow for 3–4 years, then headed back to encourage lateral scaffolds.
• Provides both strength and light penetration.
• Examples: Apple, Pear, Guava, Mango (commercial orchards).
• Advantages: Balanced framework. Good light distribution.

4. Bush System

• Tree headed back to 30–45 cm height from ground to produce several branches close to the base.
• Ideal for small trees and shrubs in windy areas.
• Examples: Gooseberry, Guava, Ber.
• Advantages: Easy management and harvesting. Suited for high-density planting.
• Disadvantages: May suffer from poor aeration if overcrowded.

5. Pyramid System

• Tree is trained to a conical shape — broad base, narrow top.
• Central leader is maintained with uniform side branches decreasing in length upwards.
• Common in ornamental and nursery trees.
• Examples: Apple, Pear (nursery stage).

6. Cordon System

• The main stem or branches are trained horizontally or at an angle on a wire or trellis.
• Common for vines or dwarf species.
• Examples: Grape, Passion fruit, Tomato (in greenhouse).
• Types: Single cordon (one stem), Double cordon (two opposite arms).

7. Espalier System

• Trees are trained flat against a wall or trellis in two dimensions.
• Used for ornamental, space-limited, or high-density systems.
• Examples: Apple, Pear, Citrus (in home gardens).
• Advantages: Saves space. Maximizes sunlight exposure.

8. Palmette System

• Branches trained in horizontal tiers on both sides of the central leader forming a fan shape.
• Suitable for intensive orchards or high-density planting.
• Examples: Apple, Pear.

9. Spindle Bush / Slender Spindle System

• Compact tree form with central leader and spirally arranged short laterals.
• Used in high-density apple orchards on dwarf rootstocks.
• Advantages: Early bearing. Easy pruning and harvesting.

10. Trellis or Bower System (for Vines)

• Vines are supported by posts and wires or overhead structures.
• Ensures good light, ventilation, and fruit quality.
• Examples: Grapes, Passion fruit, Bitter gourd, Cucumber.
• Types: Kniffin system (two wires). Head system. Bower or Pergola system (overhead canopy)

11. Tatura Trellis System

• An angular V-shaped trellis used for dwarf apple and pear trees.
• Maximizes light interception and yield per unit area.

• Factors Determining the Choice of Training System

• Training Practices (Techniques Used)

Advantages of Proper Training

• Strong and balanced framework.
• Improved sunlight penetration and air circulation.
• Early and regular bearing.
• High fruit yield and quality
• Easy orchard management (pruning, spraying, harvesting).
• Reduced pest and disease incidence.
• Long orchard life and high economic returns.

Disadvantages of Improper Training

• Weak structure and limb breakage.
• Shaded lower branches → poor fruiting.
• Uneven canopy → irregular fruit size and yield.
• Difficult management and harvesting.
• Increased pest and disease infestation.

Crop-wise Recommended Training Systems