giovedì 18 dicembre 2025

HIGH-DENSITY ALMOND ORCHARD: MECHANIZED PRUNING AND ANTI-FROST SYSTEM IN THE ZARAGOZA MODEL

The video documents a technical visit to a high-density almond orchard in the province of Verona, led by agronomist Vito Vitelli, illustrating the Zaragoza training system, now considered one of the most efficient models for modern intensive almond production.

video

The main focus is mechanized pruning, aimed at maintaining the canopy in a hollow truncated pyramid shape, which is essential for proper internal light distribution. It is explained that the upper part of the canopy must never shade the lower part. Cutting angles are maintained at a standard of 33–35 degrees, a key technical parameter of the Zaragoza system.

Another central element of the video is the overhead anti-frost irrigation system, considered indispensable in the climatic conditions of Northern Italy. This system not only protects plants from spring frosts but also provides summer cooling.

Producer Giacomo Bonsaver from Bussolengo (Verona) describes the significant investment made in both orchard structure and protection technologies, demonstrating how a high-density almond orchard, with 700–800 trees per hectare, combined with correct mechanized pruning, promotes excellent flowering potential and stable productivity.

The video also shows the double-cut pruning machine, highlighting its versatility: in Northern Italy, the same equipment is also used on apricot and apple trees, improving operational efficiency and economic sustainability.

From an economic standpoint, a clear and concrete concept is reiterated: to ensure orchard profitability, production must reach at least 40 quintals per hectare. The Zaragoza system, if properly managed, makes this goal realistically achievable, making the almond orchard a modern, rational and sustainable agricultural investment.

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Keywords:

#HighDensityAlmond #ZaragozaSystem #MechanizedPruning #LightCone #AntiFrost #ModernAlmondFarming #AgriculturalInnovation #AgronomoVitoVitelli

 

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