Did you know that Les Producteurs de pommes du Québec, the Institut de recherche et de développement en agroenvironnement and the Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation have been working together for several years to implement and develop a PFI program in Quebec orchards?
What is PFI?
Integrated Fruit Production (IFP) is an approach that promotes the adoption of good agricultural practices aimed at producing quality fruit while respecting the environment, the health and safety of citizens and growers, and the sustainability of businesses. PFI is based on the same principles as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), but with a broader vision that encompasses all aspects of production, not just pest management. To find out more about IPM, visit theAgrobonsens website. Also, an article published in Caribou Magazine on September 20, 2021 popularizes IPM.
PFI is therefore the preferred model for responsible apple production.
Why do growers use PFI?
- To produce food using more environmentally-friendly methods;
- To use a minimum of pesticides with a maximum of efficiency and thus reduce the risks (for him, the consumer and the environment) linked to the use of these products.
Methods used in PFI
Producing quality apples according to the principles of integrated fruit production requires ongoing training and the contribution of over 100 professionals offering support and advice to help apple growers apply the methods used in this approach.
Sexual confusion
The codling moth is a major pest of orchards. By feeding, the larvae of this insect cause damage to apples. Sexual confusion involves saturating the orchard air with the scent (pheromones) emitted by codling moth females wishing to mate. This makes it difficult for the males to find the females. As a result, fewer males mate and fewer larvae cause damage to apples.
This method was awarded the Prix Environnement Hélène-Alarie in 2018.
Biological control
In PFI, apple growers adapt their practices to protect auxiliary fauna. These are mainly insects, spiders and mites living in orchards and surrounding woodlands. These act as natural enemies of apple pests (aphids, mites, flies, bugs, codling moths). This is known as biological control.
(Pictured: parasitic wasp, spider, ladybug larva)
Bees and bumblebees
The presence of foraging insects such as bees and bumblebees in the orchard is essential for pollination, and therefore for apple development. That's why many apple growers choose to install beehives in their orchards, to encourage flower pollination and improve fruit quality. They are also conscientious about preserving the activity of pollinators during flowering.
Tolerant varieties adapted to our climate
Did you know that apple growers have to wait 3 to 4 years after planting to harvest the first fruit, and a few more years to achieve a good yield? Choosing varieties that are tolerant to certain diseases and adapted to our climate is a very good way of reducing the use of phytosanitary products and ensuring a good harvest.