Integrated fruit production in Brazil.
Valdebenito-Sanhueza R. M., Protas J. F. da S.
Author Affiliation: EMBRAPA UVA E VINHO, C.P. 130, 95700-000, Bento Gonçalves, RS, Brazil.
24 : 57-61
Abstract : The integrated fruit production (IFP) was initially discussed widely in southern Brazil during 1996, time when after a joint decision of research and technical assistance institutions and growers association, this system began to be established in the country. After the formulation of the technical guidelines for apples, a research project was initiated with the objective to define the economical and technical feasibility of IP, comparing with the traditionally used. After two growing seasons, it was verified that it is possible to grow apples in Brazil using the IFP principles and results showed that the main difference between both systems is the less amount of agrochemicals used in the IFP system. The same approach is being used to study IP of peaches and to relate this system to the study of wine grapes. Using the apple model, this year other groups began IP in tropical and subtropical regions with the purpose of developing IP of fruit crops such as table grapes in an irrigated condition and also with mangoes, banana, citrus, and coconut. Brazilian government is given support to this system establishing national regulation and financial support to research.