Planning and setting up an organic production unit

The term site encompasses all the factors associated with climate, location and soil. These three factors are closely related to each other. This interaction produces the living conditions for the tree. In addition, there are also interactions of the fruit plants with each other, and interactions between the fruit plants and the relevant fauna and flora (biocoenosis). 

The economics of organic fruit production is largely dependent on the site. Since in organic fruit production it is only possible to make very limited use of chemicals for controlling disease and pests, the choice of site is of critical importance as a preventative measure for plant protection. The different requirements of particular species and varieties of fruit call for specific locations. To achieve economic success, the site condi- 

Climate is of fundamental importance in determining whether a particular species of fruit can be successfully grown at all in a particular area. The general climate is shaped by the following factors  

Meteorological stations measure and record the averages and provide a basis for climatic assessment. The climatic conditions of a particular area can be deduced from the general climatic data. These data are summarized in climatic charts, which are a key element in assessing the suitability of an area for fruit production. 

In order to assess the suitability of a particular area for fruit production, apart from the mean annual temperature it is important to know the mean temperature during the months from May to September (principal growing season). 

---

Soil testing is a widely used means of finding out the specific properties and nutrient content of a soil and monitoring them over a period of time (see Chapter 2 Planning and setting up an organic production unit). A fertilizer programme can be drawn up on the basis of the results of soil analysis. 

---