Evaluation of the ecological precability regarding the apple and plum plantations in Olișcani location, Șoldănești district

Abstract

The results presented refer to the ecological characteristics of apple and plum orchards in Olişcani, Șoldănești district (Republic of Moldova) in order to create agricultural systems – ecological and economic at zonal, microzonal level to maintain soil quality, environment and high productivity. The aim of the research was to examine the abiotic, biotic, favorability and productivity potential factors of the lands suitable for the cultivation of apple and plum fruit species. Apple and plum orchards have specifi c requirements for climate, relief, soil, etc. They have moderate light requirements: they prefer sunny surfaces, but can also grow in partial shade. The leaves and fruits need more light, which in this way acquires a more intense color. Temperatures for apple development are between 13 and 28°C. In hilly areas, with suffi cient humidity and poor heat, the slopes with southern and southwestern exposure are chosen a better quality of fruit, respectively a high sugar content. On the slopes, the middle third is preferred, avoiding the upper third with eroded soil and strong winds, as well as the lower third with excess air and water currents. In the area of hills with an altitude of 300–350 m, the plantations can be located on slopes with western, eastern or even northern exposure, preferably on the middle and lower third of the slope. In the dry steppe and forest-steppe areas, the slopes with north-western and north-eastern exposure are preferred, the orchards being located at their base or even on the valleys without cold currents. The complexity of the problems includes the research of the natural and real components of the agricultural environment in relation to the climate, relief, rock and soil factors for the foundation of fruit plantations with high productivity and the maintenance of the ecological stability.