Latest Irrigation Techniques and Methods Tutorial for Mountain Apple Orchards

Apples can be planted on flat ground, but they can also be planted on mountain slopes. The most important problem to solve in mountain areas is irrigation and watering. If there is no water source on the mountain, irrigation is very difficult; if there is a water source on the mountain, irrigation is somewhat easier. But there are particular considerations for watering when planting on mountain slopes, how to irrigate, and what to pay attention to, so this is a problem we must consider. Now let us take a look at how to do it.

1. Reverse-slope water retention

Fruit trees planted on sunny slopes are prone to drought. Mountain areas have little water, and the root systems are not very strong, so it is best to terrace the hillside just like building terraced fields. Then, on each level of orchard land, several pits should be dug to store water, going down level by level like fish scales; these are called fish-scale pits. In this way, irrigation can be carried out at any time.

2. Straw mulching around the roots

Spread some rice straw, crop stalks, or similar material under each fruit tree. One layer is enough; do not make it too thick, as low temperatures can easily rise. Mulching grass around the tree roots is meant to maintain soil moisture, and it can also increase temperature, prevent frost damage, and improve soil fertility. However, after mulching for a long time, insects are likely to appear, so it needs to be replaced or sprayed with pesticides.

3. Fertilizer and water root irrigation

For each fruit tree, irrigate directly at the roots, and combine this with fertilization by dissolving fertilizer in water 3 and irrigating the roots together. Each time, irrigate about 20 kg per tree, about once every one to two months. Do not do it too many times; too many times can easily damage the roots, cause water accumulation, and too much moisture can easily lead to disease.

4. Irrigation methods

Pipes can be laid in the orchard, and then drip irrigation technology can be used. When needed, connect one end to a water source and irrigation can begin. Alternatively, the pipes can be replaced with sprinkler irrigation facilities, so that the tree bodies can also feel the moisture, and in summer high temperatures it can cool them down. This irrigation method also saves water resources relatively well, and at the same time the irrigation is easily   absorbed, with very good results.

5. Digging pits to store water

Dig a large water storage pool near the mountain planting area. After digging the pool, line the inside with thick plastic sheeting, and then wait for rainy days to fill the pool with water. Then place wood over the pool, and cover it with plastic sheeting to prevent water evaporation. When watering is needed, it can be used directly. However, pay attention to disinfecting the pool; if water is stored continuously, bacteria are likely to develop.

Planting apples on mountain slopes is actually much better than planting on flat ground. Aside from the water source problem, mountain areas can receive more sunlight, and sometimes there is not that much land for planting apples, so mountain areas can also be put to use. The issue of water use in mountain areas can be solved through the above methods.