Abstract: 【Objective】The root restriction method and root volume were studied in order to control the growth of peach in high density orchard. 【Method】The effects of root confinement on the vegetative and reproductive growth of young peach trees, nectarine Huaguang, were investigated during the first 3 years after planted in buried bed, raised bed and box, respectively. 【Result】Root confinement inhibited the vegetative growth of the above-ground parts. The biomass and weight of winter pruning decreased as well as the length and diameter of shoot with root confinements. Root confinement had no noticeable effects on the height, trunk diameter and canopy size of trees if root volume was bigger than 150 L. Trees grown in raised bed and box had smaller vegetative vigor than those in fabric-lined trench. The improvement of flower formation was observed in the second season after treatment but not in the first season. Proper root volume increased fruit-set rate and yield without affecting fruit size and SCC. But too small root volume reduced those indexes.【Conclusion】The proper root volume and root restriction method were discussed and the volume 100-150 L for peach Huaguang in high density (1 m×2 m) was recommended. The root volume should be relatively smaller for the method of fabric-lined trench.

Key words: Nectarine (Prunus persica var. nectarina), Root confinement, Growth control