MANAGEMENT OF IRRIGATION, NUTRITION AND CROP PROTECTION AS AN ADAPTATION TO KIWIFRUIT VINE CHARACTERISTICS

For kiwifruit the first target of crop management is the protection against environment (wind, frosts, drought, weeds, bad soils, etc ..) The rates of growth, hydraulic conductivity ,leaf size and inclination , fruit growing patterns, and soil adaptation are summarized. The effect of water stress at different periods are discussed. Different methods for monitoring water uptake are reviewed. Leaf inclination could give a practical indication on the water status of the vine. Under tree irrigation leads to a better spreading of water than overhead sprinklers. Characteristics of roots are discussed in relation with irrigation and nutrition. Emphasis is placed on the influence of late season irrigation and fertilisation on frost tenderness and storage ability.