Strategy to enhance biodiversity in orchards (BIOFRUITNET Practice Abstract)

Summary in the original language of the document

Appropriately designed measures that aim to enhance predators of important pests or pollinators often also enhance species biodiversity in general. Moreover, many organic fruit growers are highly motivated to contribute to their orchard management to enhance biodiversity in agroecosystems.
Practical recommendation
The following measures can be applied:
• Establish hedges at the border of the orchard
• Plant anchor plants at the end of the rows
• Set up small flower strips with a high number of plant species containing also open nectar plants to attract beneficial insects in the middle of the alley
• Practice alternate mulching
• Integrate high-perennial fringes along edge structures with a high diversity of plant species and open nectar plants. If feasible, mulch almost part of these fringes in spring to offer overwintering sites for insects
• Install nest boxes for birds and bats in your orchard
• Set up nest boxes for wild bees in the orchard
• Include structures such as stone or wood piles in the orchard to offer shelter for weasels and other species.
All measures to enhance biodiversity must be integrated into an intelligent vole management plan adapted especially to vegetation management.