Characterization of the soil of peach orchards in the region of Beira Interior

Abstract

Peach orchards in the region of Beira Interior, Portugal, account for 23% of the total Portuguese area of peach trees and 16% of the region fruit crops.

The aim of this study is the characterization of the soil of peach orchards by utilizing the data of soils analysis supplied by the farmersorganization of integrated protection and integrated production (AAPIM, APPIZÊZERE and Cooperativa dos Fruticultores da Cova da Beira).

The total of 117 soil analysis available corresponds to 463 ha of peach production which represent 1/3 of the total area of peach production in the region (1500 ha).

The main results show that soil have a coarse texture, are acid, with low organic mater but high content of phosphorus and potassium.