Abstract
In autumn 2017, the apricot varieties Tsunami, Orangered, Bergeval, Klosterneuburger, Digat and Vertige were planted in the experimental site 083 of the Haschhof experimental station, trained as spindles in a 3.5 m x 2 m planting system and tested under an organic regime. In spring 2021, the VOEN covering system was installed in one half of the site 083. Up to the sixth year, Bergeval achieved the highest yield under organic cultivation conditions. Klosterneuburger achieved the lowest yields. Frost damage occurred in 2020 and 2023, particularly severe with Klosterneuburger and Tsunami. Aboveaverage tree dieback was recorded with Bergeval and Vertige. Phytoplasma infection, drought stress and replant disease are discussed as possible causes. Positive effects of the VOEN covering system were the reduction of Monilia infections, the reduction of late frost damage in 2023 and an increase in fruit yields. These advantages are offset by the high investment costs, the effort involved in opening and closing the foil and the risk of damage from snow pressure and exposure to storms.