Pomology

Pomology (from Latin pomum, "fruit", + -logy, "study") is a branch of botany that studies fruits and their cultivation. Someone who researches and practices the science of pomology is called a pomologist. Pomological research is mainly focused on the development, enhancement, cultivation, conservation and physiological studies of fruit trees. The goals of fruit tree improvement include enhancement of fruit quality, regulation of production periods, and reduction of production costs. The term fruticulture (from Latin fructus, "fruit", + cultura, "care") is also used to describe the agricultural practice of growing fruits in orchards. It is applied horticulture of growing, managing, and producing fruit crops. It focuses on: Orchard establishment and layout Pruning, training, and canopy management Irrigation and fertilization Pest and disease control Harvesting and orchard management practices