The fruit tree has underground and aboveground parts. Roots, which function is to supply the tree with water and minerals and to anchore the tree, are the underground parts of fruit plants. In the case of fruit plants, pruning is the main measure to regulate the relationship between growth and fertility. One of the most important elements of technological management is the control of tree growth. Excessive vegetative growth means reduced light penetration, and thus lower yields and poorer fruit quality, as well as increased costs associated with pruning and pest control. In the case of vigorous trees, various growth control measures can be used, such as girdling, summer pruning, bending, use of phytoregulators, use of weak rootstock, root pruning … The main goal of root pruning, reduction of shoot growth, is often accompanied by side effects, which can be a problem (especially reduced fruit size and fruit rusting). Desirable effects of root pruning are improved fruit set, reduced natural fruit drop, increased soluble solids content and increased content of calcium in the fruit. Due to undesirable side effects, root pruning is often considered only as a recommended measure in cases of excessive shoot growth. Combinations of different measures optimize the reduction of vegetative growth and related benefits – pruning costs reduction, spraying efficiency improvement, increased flower set for the next season, increased yield and improved fruit quality.
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