Operational Group: Optimization of organic apple production for cider

The objectives of this Task Force are: to determine the ripening periods and optimal harvesting times for the varieties grown in the A Estrada region, establishing evaluation criteria that producers can easily manage, and developing approximate calendars based on the climate, allowing for the organization of harvesting and marketing activities. The objective is to control alternate bearing on farms to achieve stable production over the years. It is necessary to thoroughly understand the varieties from different areas and different farms, studying their relationship with the microclimate in order to link this with the natural tendency for the production of local varieties and thus establish a pruning plan to reduce alternate bearing. The objective is to study whether or not harvesting alternates for local cultivars in the region, proposing different pruning systems to control this alternation in the area's plantations. The objective is to design an on-site training system for farmers on their own farms to improve production.