Effect of Mechanical Pruning on Olive Yield in a High-Density Olive Orchard: An Account of 14 Years

In Portugal., the study of mechanical pruning in olive orchards began 1997. Trials were carried out traditional orchards, and obtained results revealed that can contribute to reduction costs without a yield. 2005, authors started an evaluation high-density orchards. The trial was organised randomised, complete block design, with three replications. Four treatments compared: T1—manual pruning, using chain saws 2010, 2014, 2017; T2—mechanical topping, hedging (two sides) 2014 2017, followed by manual complement; T3—mechanical topping (west side) 2008 2012, (east summer July 2015, winter 2016; T4—mechanical 2015. average yield per tree for each treatment evaluated. first period (5 years), no significant differences found between treatments. second (4 greater frequency (T3) showed lower yield, T2. third 5 years, severity reduced (2014). Manual complement after (T2) did not increase yield; however, over this time similar. maintained 14 years only applying inside canopy.