Résumé
This study focuses on the main rules guiding the establishment of apricot trees which are described according to architectural analysis method. This knowledge can then be applied to the design of new training systems.
Growth is definite and rhythmic in the apricot tree. Different kinds of shoots can be considered depending on the length of the growing period and growth rhythmicity. Branching occurs in two different ways: monopodial and immediate or sympodial and delayed. The axes are thus organized according to a specific arrangement which is defined as the architectural unit. Flowers are axillary on prophylls of one-year-old buds. Most of the time, fruiting promotes branch bending and the development of new branching systems called reiterated complexes. Adult trees result from successive reiterated complexes stacked on each other. The development stage reached by a given complex depends on its location within the whole canopy.
These rules are valid for all varieties, despite each variety having its own architectural expression. For most cultivars, it appears unnecessary to prune young trees to promote branching. On the contrary, the absence of pruning promotes early fruiting and branch bending. It is possible to train adult trees by selecting reiterated complexes in appropriate locations within the canopy and by managing their turnover. Designing new training systems can take advantage of the natural establishment of trees, particularly in order to reduce work load in the field.