Introduction of deciduous fruit tree growing in the tropical highlands of Kabale, Uganda

Exploratory deciduous fruit trees trials in Kabale highlands started in 1999. Initial materials were acquired from Kenya. All initial plantings were grafted on Bittenfeldar rootstock seedlings raised from seed obtained from Germany. More species and cultivars were added in 2000 and by December 2003, over 30 cultivars of deciduous fruits namely; Apples, Peaches, Pears and Plums had been introduced for investigation. Initial trials of Apples anna and Golden dorsett were established at Bugongi, Buhara Kachwekano and Kalengyere. At Kalengyere Apple anna and Golden dorsett were top-worked in 2000 on rootstock trees that were established in 1995. Again in 2000, apples anna and Golden dorsett were supplied to 80 farmers at different altitudes for on-farm trials. Agronomical data, flowering and fruiting and yield data has been collected. Orchard management as well training trees to develop an open architecture have been practiced. The original aim of the deciduous fruit tree introductions was to confirm their potential to produce viable fruits in the highland systems of Uganda and therefore offer an alternative source of income and nutrition. In addition it was aimed at identifying relevant research studies that are needed to develop the deciduous fruit tree growing as a profitable enterprise. Twenty-four out of the 30 cultivars of apple, pear, peach, nectarine and plum, which have been introduced on station sites have flowered and produced fruits. Fruiting for apples anna and golden dorsett started after two years. At four years and under moderate tree management, apple Anna and Golden dorsett have produced an average of 5 kilograms per tree (a retail value of USh 20,000). No significant yield difference has been observed at different altitudes. Highest yields have however been registered on trees that were grafted in the field. In the Kigezi climatic conditions, two potential fruit harvesting seasons of May June and November December are possible for apples. Some cultivars of peaches have produced an average of 12 kg per tree per year. Also Pears have shown excellent performance while plums are trailing.

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