The effect of a technological package implemented in a Valencia orange orchard was studied and compared with the conventional system, based on the production and quality of the fruits harvested. The technologies implemented included the densification, fertilization during implantation and training, phytosanitary treatment, weed management, irrigation and pruning. The results for the fruits from the first harvest showed that the Technified System and Irrigation (TS + I) resulted in significant increase in crop yield. This increase was higher in orchards with a higher density of 727 plants ha-1 (5.5 x 2.5 m spacing) or 667 plants ha-1 (6.0 x 2.5 m spacing). In general, irrigation concomitant with TS resulted in larger sized fruits and consequently less fruit per standard sized box, and lower soluble solids and titrable acidity. There was no effect on juice yield with the production system or spacing. It is concluded that, in this first evaluation, orchard management technologies concomitant with irrigation (TS + I) is interesting because promoted an increase in crop yield compared to conventional systems.
Citrus sinensis O.; yield; irrigation; technology
