Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
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Prevent wet spots in the orchard that can increase root diseases and dis-
orders
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Prevent soil erosion
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Be reliable
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Be easy to use
Although irrigation systems may seem simple, you need expertise and ex-
perience to design an effective system. For all but the smallest orchards, it is
best to have a professional assist you with the design. Firms that sell irriga-
tion equipment can often help you design a system that meets your needs.
MAKE SAFETY A PRIORITY
Personal safety is a concern in every orchard. When you have cus-
tomers for U-pick or roadside stand orchards, safety becomes even
more challenging. Design your operation to keep customers and visit-
ors away from equipment, storage buildings, and potentially hazardous
orchard operations. You want the orchard to be attractive and welcom-
ing without exposing people to unnecessary hazards.
Consider installing fences and railings to keep people away from haz-
ardous areas. Design planting blocks and access roads to confine U-
pick customers to particular blocks while harvesting, rather than al-
lowing them to roam throughout the orchard and “cherry pick” only
perfect fruit. Figure 3.8 shows a sample orchard design.
Flooding.
Years ago, orchards in regions where water was abundant were
commonly flooded. Using a series of ditches and dams, the entire orchard
