Mechanical Pruning of ‘Clemenules’ Mandarins in Spain: Yield Effects and Economic Analysis

Pruning is one of the most expensive tasks in citrus production, and its mechanization could increase productivity competitiveness farms. The effect mechanical pruning on yield depends variety, crop condition, location; among other factors. ‘Clemenules’ mandarin variety important ones; therefore, aim this work was to study effects twelve strategies over four years, conduct an economic analysis. These included fully manual pruning, annual alternation mechanical/manual with follow-up, different types cuttings. results showed that affected fruit size some years but not when overall are considered. Strategies annually alternated had higher yields than approaches, similar control (no pruning) strategies. Furthermore, although costs per hectare were as minimum two times less those net value achieved approach followed by alternate pruning. In conclusion, after study, strategy best global for which involved alternating (topping one-sided hedging) This allows maintaining regular tree dimensions without dry branches inside.