Apple Rootstock

Back to the more mundane for Robert, but here is his report:

Hi John and Mary.

I hereby to submit my report on Fruits Tree Nursery Quality Standard
Workshop which was held in Lilongwe with International Centre for Research
in Agroforestry. ICRAF ( World Agroforestry Centre).
It was an opportunity to share knowledge with several experts in fruits tree production, like Nurseries, Horticulturists and other stakeholders.
HEADLINES
• Quality of seed planted in nursery is of crucial importance, since seed are the most basic input into any planting programme.

• They recommended that rootstock, which is rough lemon and potting tube which is 22cm * 30cm perforated.

• Isolation distance between mother orchard (plants) and seedling nursery should be 50m.

• Methods of controlling pest and disease in orchard and nursery should be organic because chemicals are harmful.

• A market is found countrywide.

IMPORTANCE OF FRUIT/ORCHARD.
• Fruit tree is only true farmers pension. You only invest once and
harvest for a long period of time.
• Fruit is a reliable source of food security. Most fruit mature during critical hunger period, eg Mango, hence is called the bridge.
• Farmers need to persevere to prosper
• Eg (W4Z farm prosperity concept).
CHALLENGES
Many nursery men and women who farm in Malawi sell ungrafted/unbudded fruit seedlings, so there is huge need for training and an opportunity for W4Z
WAY FORWARD
Seedling nursery farms need to have certification to sell seedlings country wide.
CONCLUSION
In my conclusion, quality planting material is the genesis of a
prosperous fruit industry.

REMARKS: It was so enjoyable for me because all areas mentioned, we
already have at Lusangazi farm. Like Mother orchard, Green houses and
Expert workers for budding and grafting. Hopefuly Lusangazi farm
will be the one of supplying fruit seedlings contrywide.

Thanks
Robert