SEA BUCKTHORN Plant Botanika Bio - 2 L pot, height 40 cm

Sea buckthorn, a resilient shrub with multiple benefits, is increasingly attracting professional market gardeners thanks to its nutrient-rich fruits and numerous applications. Bairiverse offers a complete range of organic and conventional sea buckthorn plants, adapted to the needs of farms, guaranteeing quality, optimized yields, and personalized technical advice.

What technical criteria are used to select high-performance sea buckthorn plants?

To successfully purchase professional sea buckthorn plants , several essential criteria must be taken into account:

• Plant quality : Choose certified plants that are free from disease and pests. Certification guarantees varietal authenticity and sanitary quality.
• Adaptation to the terroir : Choose varieties adapted to your region and local soil and climate conditions. Sea buckthorn thrives in well-drained, relatively poor soils .
• Plant Sex : Since sea buckthorn is dioecious, make sure you have the correct ratio of male to female plants (approximately 1 male to 6-8 females) for good pollination, unless you opt for self-fertile varieties.
• Planting period : Plant in autumn to encourage good rooting, although spring is also possible.

There are many advantages to buying professional plants :

• Higher Quality : Professional plants are generally more robust and better prepared for commercial production.
• Optimized yield : Varieties selected for professional use often offer better yields and superior fruit quality .
• Expert support : Specialist suppliers like Bairiverse offer technical support , from the choice of varieties to cultivation and harvesting methods.
• Guarantees : Some nurserymen offer guarantees of recovery and varietal conformity , thus ensuring the security of your investment.
• Economies of scale : Buying in bulk often allows for preferential pricing , thus reducing production costs.

By choosing professional sea buckthorn plants , you benefit from quality plant material , suitable for commercial production , and valuable technical support to optimize your cultivation.

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What type of sea buckthorn plant should you choose to optimize recovery and yield?

To choose the type of sea buckthorn plant best suited to your business project, it is essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Plants in alveoli or mini-clods

• These plants are economical and easy to handle .
• They offer good recovery thanks to a well-developed root system and no knots.
• They require quick planting after purchase and may require intermediate repotting before final placement.

Bare-root plants

• Economical and easy to transport , they are ideal for large-scale plantings .
• The planting period is limited to dormancy (autumn-winter) .
• They require quick planting to avoid the roots drying out.

Plants in pots

• They offer a good compromise between root development and ease of planting .
• The pots allow planting all year round , except during periods of frost.
• Be careful, however, of the risk of root rot if the plants remain in the container for too long.

Potted plants

• These more developed plants ensure faster production .
• However, they are more expensive and heavier to handle .
• They are well suited for planting in limited numbers or to replace missing areas in an existing plot.

Tips for choosing the right one

For sea buckthorn, the choice will depend on your production scale and your constraints :

• For extensive planting , bare-root or mini-ball plants will be more economical and practical.
• For smaller scale production or if you want faster fruiting , plants in pots or containers will be preferable.

It is crucial to consider the planned planting period and your irrigation capabilities . Plants in plugs , for example, require special attention to watering to ensure good recovery.

Whichever option you choose, choose certified plants adapted to your region to ensure the quality and success of your sea buckthorn plantation . Don't hesitate to consult a specialist supplier like Bairiverse for personalized advice based on your specific project.

Which sea buckthorn varieties should be favored for profitable production in France?

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is increasingly cultivated in France for its nutrient-rich berries. Here is an overview of the most common varieties , adapted to French climatic conditions:

Traditional varieties:

• 'Leikora' : This female variety is highly valued for its productivity and fruit quality. It produces bright orange berries , rich in vitamins and antioxidants .
• ' Pollmix ' : This is a male variety commonly used as a pollinator . It is compatible with most female varieties and ensures good fruiting.
• ' Hergo ' : A female variety of German origin, it is known for its early and abundant production . Its fruits are medium-sized and easy to harvest .

Specific varieties:

Early:

• 'Otradnaya' : This Russian variety is one of the earliest . It is vigorous and cold-resistant , which makes it particularly suitable for the northern regions of France.
• 'Sunny' (also known as 'Botanika Lubitelskaya' ): A highly productive Latvian selection , it produces juicy, early-ripening fruits . Its medium-sized , thornless bush makes harvesting easy.

Late:

• 'Sirola' : A cross between Siberian and European subspecies , this German variety combines good fruit quality with high disease resistance . Its later ripening allows for a longer harvest period.
• ' Tatjana ' : Latvian variety particularly suited to the production of sea buckthorn oil . Its berries, arranged in dense clusters , ripen later in the season.

Self-fertile:

• 'Friesdorfer Orange' : This self-fertile variety is particularly interesting for small farms or gardens , as it does not require the presence of a male plant to bear fruit.

Varieties with specific characteristics:

• 'Argalp 700' : Selected in France, this variety is distinguished by its high vitamin C content and its high level of antioxidants , making it particularly interesting for processing .
• 'Chuyskaya' : Of Russian origin, this variety produces sweeter than average fruit and has few thorns , making harvesting easier.

It is important to note that the choice of variety must take into account local growing conditions , the production objective (fresh fruit, processing, oil) and harvest constraints . For optimal production, it is recommended to plant several compatible varieties , respecting a ratio of approximately one male plant for six to eight female plants , except in the case of self-fertile varieties .

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How to spread out the sea buckthorn harvest without everbearing varieties?

Unlike some fruit shrubs, sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) does not have any strictly speaking everbearing varieties . Sea buckthorn generally produces fruit once a year , with harvesting lasting from late August to October depending on the variety and region.

However, for market gardening professionals wishing to optimize their sea buckthorn production, there are strategies for spreading out the harvest period :

Diversification of varieties:

By planting a mix of early , seasonal and late varieties, it is possible to extend the harvest period over several weeks. For example:

• Early : 'Otradnaya' or 'Sunny', whose fruits ripen from the end of August .
• Seasonal : 'Leikora' or ' Hergo ', with harvest in September .
• Late : 'Sirola' or 'Tatjana', whose fruits can be harvested until October .

Adaptation to local conditions:

Some varieties may behave differently depending on the region. It is recommended to test several varieties to identify those that best adapt to your terroir and allow for spreading out production .

Cultivation techniques:

Although it is not a varietal characteristic , certain cultural practices can influence the fruiting period:

• Pruning : Proper pruning can stimulate new shoot production and potentially influence the timing of fruiting.
• Irrigation : Precise irrigation management can sometimes delay or slightly advance fruit ripening .

Varieties to consider for staggered production:

• 'Orange Energy' (also known as 'Habego'): This German variety is known for its vigorous growth and reliable fruiting . It may offer a slightly longer harvest period than other varieties.
• 'Friesdorfer Orange' : Although not everbearing, this self-fertile variety can be of interest to professionals because it simplifies plantation management by eliminating the need for separate male plants.
• 'Leikora' : This variety, although not everbearing, is appreciated for its abundant and regular production , which can contribute to a more spread-out harvest .

For market gardening professionals , it is crucial to choose a range of varieties that will optimize production and spread the harvest over a longer period. This facilitates labor management and allows you to respond more efficiently to market demand . It is recommended to consult specialist nurserymen such as Bairiverse for advice tailored to your specific project and the local conditions of your farm.

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When to plant sea buckthorn to ensure rapid production?

The optimal planting period for sea buckthorn is mainly in autumn , from September to November , or in early spring , from March to early April . These periods offer the best conditions to ensure good plant recovery and maximize future yield .

Fall planting (recommended):

• Benefits : Allows plants to develop their root system before winter, ensuring better recovery the following spring .
• Ideal period : From September to November , as soon as the leaves begin to fall .
• Precautions : Avoid planting during periods of severe frost .

Spring planting:

• Period : From March to early April , before the buds burst .
• Advantages : Suitable for areas with harsh winters where autumn planting could be risky.
• Caution : Requires increased vigilance for watering during the first summer season .

Optimal timing to maximize yield:

• Year 1 (autumn) : Planting sea buckthorn.
• Year 2-3 : Plant formation and vegetative development .
• Year 4-5 : Start of fruit production .
• Year 6 and following : Production in full production .

For professionals , it is crucial to plan planting according to the desired production schedule . A fall planting will generally allow for faster entry into production than a spring planting.

Tips to optimize recovery and performance:

• Prepare the soil several weeks before planting to encourage good rooting .
• Respect the recommended planting distances : approximately 3-4 meters between rows and 1.5-2 meters in the row .
• Ensure good soil drainage to avoid overwatering which can cause yellowing leaves and root rot .
• Plan an efficient irrigation system , especially important for spring plantings .

By following this calendar and recommendations , professional market gardeners can optimize the recovery of their sea buckthorn plants and lay the foundations for abundant and profitable fruit production in the years to come.

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Under what conditions should sea buckthorn be planted to ensure its growth?

Sea buckthorn is a hardy shrub that adapts to various conditions, but certain factors are essential to optimize its growth and production in a professional context:

Exposure :

Sea buckthorn requires full sun exposure for optimal fruiting . It does not tolerate shade and needs maximum light to develop quality fruit . This light requirement is crucial for planning commercial orchards .

Climate :

This shrub is remarkably resistant to extreme weather conditions . It can withstand temperatures ranging from -43°C to +40°C , making it suitable for most French regions . Sea buckthorn tolerates drought and sea spray well, making it an attractive choice for coastal or arid areas.

Ground :

Although sea buckthorn adapts to various soil types, it prefers well-drained , sandy loam soils. For commercial production, a pH of 6 to 7 is optimal. The shrub has the unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen , allowing it to thrive even in poor soils .

Planting distances:

• 1 to 2 meters between plants in the row
• 3 to 6 meters between rows

These spacings allow good sun exposure and facilitate access to machinery for maintenance and harvesting . For commercial orchards , a north-south orientation of the rows is recommended to maximize sunlight .

Male/female ratio:

Since sea buckthorn is a dioecious plant , it is crucial to ensure the correct ratio of male to female plants . The standard recommendation is one male plant for every 6 to 8 female plants . In a commercial orchard , a row of males can be planted at the beginning and end of the planting to optimize pollination .

Water requirements:

Although drought tolerant , sea buckthorn requires a minimum of 400 mm of water per year for optimal production . An irrigation system is recommended, particularly during fruit formation and dry periods .

By respecting these ideal conditions , professional growers can create an optimal environment for the growth and production of their sea buckthorn, thus ensuring a solid foundation for successful commercial operation .

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What soil should be prepared to maximize sea buckthorn productivity?

Sea buckthorn adapts to a wide variety of soils , but certain conditions are particularly favorable to its growth and productivity :

Favorable soil types:

Sea buckthorn prefers light to medium , sandy to sandy loam soils. Light to medium sandy loams with good drainage are ideal. Although it can grow in poor soils , sea buckthorn performs best in soils rich in organic matter for commercial production .

Recommended pH:

The optimal pH for sea buckthorn is between 6.0 and 7.0 . Some sources indicate a wider tolerance , ranging from 5.5 to 7.0 . To ensure better nutrient availability , a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 is generally aimed for.

Drainage:

Excellent drainage is crucial for sea buckthorn. This plant does not tolerate heavy or poorly drained soils . In wet areas , it is recommended to install ditches or perforated drains to improve drainage.

Necessary amendments:

Although sea buckthorn can grow in poor soils , for optimal commercial production , certain amendments may be beneficial:

• Lime Amendments : If the soil pH is too low , adding lime may be necessary to correct it.
• Organic Amendments : Incorporating organic matter can improve soil structure and water-holding capacity .
• Micronutrients : Foliar sprays with micronutrients like Cu, Mo, Mn, I, B, Co and Zn can increase fruit weight by up to 34.5% .
• Phosphorus : Sea buckthorn responds well to phosphorus intake .
• Mulching : Mulching in early winter or early spring can be beneficial.

It is important to note that sea buckthorn has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through nodules on its roots , which allows it to naturally enrich the soil . This characteristic reduces the need for nitrogen fertilization .

For commercial planting , it is recommended to conduct a soil test before planting to determine the necessary amendments. The depth of loose soil should be at least 60 cm , with a water table located more than 70 cm deep.

By respecting these soil conditions , sea buckthorn growers can create an optimal environment for the growth and productivity of their plants, thus ensuring a solid foundation for a successful commercial operation .

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How to structure a commercial sea buckthorn plantation?

To successfully start a sea buckthorn plot , follow these essential steps :

Ground preparation:

• Weed the area thoroughly , removing the roots of the weeds .
• Loosen the soil deeply to encourage good rooting .
• If the soil is poor, improve it by adding sand and/or organic matter such as compost or rotted manure .
• Ensure drainage is adequate , as sea buckthorn does not tolerate poorly drained soils .

Choice of varieties:

• Select varieties suited to your region and local soil and climate conditions .
• For commercial production , opt for larger-fruited varieties such as 'Leikora' or ' Hergo ' .
• Aim for a ratio of one male plant to 6 to 8 female plants , choosing effective pollinators like ' Pollmix ' .
• Consider self-fertile varieties like 'Friesdorfer Orange' to simplify management .

Practical organization of plantations:

• Plant preferably in autumn (September-October) or early spring (March-April).
• Space plants 1.5 to 2 meters apart in the row and 3 to 4 meters between rows.
• Dig planting holes at least 50 cm wide and deep.
• When planting, spread the roots well and ensure that the root collar is flush with the ground .
• Water thoroughly after planting to encourage recovery.

Post-planting care:

• Install an irrigation system , especially important for young plants .
• Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and limit weed competition .
• Provide protection against rodents , which can damage young plants.

Long-term planning:

• Anticipate that fruit production will generally begin in the 3rd or 4th year after planting.
• Allow sufficient space for machinery to circulate during maintenance and harvesting.

By following these steps and paying careful attention to land preparation and variety selection , you will lay the foundations for a productive and profitable sea buckthorn plot .

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What crop associations should be optimized with sea buckthorn in orchards?

Since sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a dioecious plant , the combination of male and female varieties is essential to ensure good pollination and optimal fruit production . For successful professional cultivation , it is recommended to plant one male sea buckthorn for every 6 to 8 female plants . Male varieties such as 'Pollmix' or 'Lord' are particularly effective for pollination .

To maximize the harvest period , it is wise to combine early varieties like 'Otradnaya' with mid-season varieties such as 'Leikora' and late varieties like 'Sirola' . This strategy allows production to be spread over several weeks.

Association with companion plants:

Combining sea buckthorn with companion plants can bring many benefits :

• Honey plants : Incorporating plants such as phacelia or buckwheat attracts pollinators , which can improve pollination of sea buckthorn, even though it is mainly wind-pollinated.
• Nitrogen-fixing plants : Although sea buckthorn already fixes atmospheric nitrogen, combining it with plants such as clover or alfalfa can further enrich the soil with nitrogen.
• Repellent plants : Certain aromatic plants such as lavender , thyme or mint can repel harmful insects and contribute to the natural protection of the sea buckthorn grove.
• Trap plants : Using trap plants such as cabbage can attract pests away from sea buckthorn, reducing damage to the main crop .
• Green manures : Planting green manures such as mustard or rye between the rows can improve soil structure and provide organic matter .

Pest Protection:

To combat specific sea buckthorn diseases and pests, such as the sea buckthorn moth ( Gelechia hippophaella ), it is recommended to lay down a thick mulch (10-15 cm) in early spring. This mulch can be made up of straw , plant pruning waste , or compacted seedless weeds .

By wisely combining sea buckthorn varieties and incorporating beneficial companion plants , growers can create a balanced ecosystem that promotes plant health , optimizes pollination , and naturally reduces pest and disease problems.

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What maintenance practices ensure a productive sea buckthorn grove?

Maintaining a professional sea buckthorn grove requires careful attention to several key aspects :

Watering:

Although sea buckthorn is drought-resistant , regular watering is essential for optimal production , especially during the first few years . A drip irrigation system is recommended, providing approximately 25-30 liters of water per plant per week during the growing season . Watering should be more frequent during fruit formation and dry periods .

Fertilization:

Since sea buckthorn is able to fix atmospheric nitrogen , its nitrogen fertilization needs are limited. However, an annual application of compost or well-rotted manure (about 2-3 kg per plant ) in spring can improve soil structure and provide essential nutrients . Foliar fertilization with micronutrients ( Cu, Mo, Mn, I, B, Co, Zn ) can significantly increase fruit weight .

Preventive treatments:

• Mulching : A thick mulch (10-15 cm) in spring helps to retain soil moisture , limits weeds and can prevent certain fungal diseases .
• Sanitary pruning : Regularly remove dead , diseased or damaged branches to prevent the spread of disease.
• Crop rotation : If possible, avoid replanting sea buckthorn in the same location for several years to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases .

Curative treatments:

• Against insect pests such as the sea buckthorn moth ( Gelechia hippophaella ), pheromone traps can be used for monitoring and control by mating disruption .
• For fungal diseases , copper or sulfur-based treatments can be applied in compliance with current regulations for organic farming .
• In cases of iron deficiency (chlorosis), foliar applications of iron chelates may be necessary, especially in calcareous soils .

Size :

Formative pruning is necessary in the first few years to establish a solid structure . Subsequently, annual maintenance pruning at the end of winter helps maintain good canopy ventilation and facilitates harvesting . It is recommended not to prune more than 25-30% of the plant's volume per year.

Monitoring :

Regular inspection of plants is crucial to detect early signs of stress , disease or pest attacks . This allows for rapid intervention and adjustment of cultural practices if necessary.

By following these maintenance practices , sea buckthorn growers can maintain the health of their plants , optimize their production and ensure the longevity of their sea buckthorn grove .

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How to prune sea buckthorn to promote fruiting and access to the harvest?

Pruning and training sea buckthorn are essential to optimize its growth and fruit production . Here are the specific techniques recommended for professional growers :

Training size (years 1-3):

• First year : Cut back the plants to about 60 cm in height after planting to encourage branching .
• Second year : Remove all branches located less than 30 cm from the ground to facilitate maintenance and future harvesting .
• Third year : Select 3-5 well-spaced main branches to form the basic structure of the shrub.

Maintenance pruning (from the ^4th year):

• Carry out the main pruning in late winter or early spring , before the buds burst .
• Remove dead , diseased or intersecting branches to promote good canopy ventilation .
• Shorten overlong branches to maintain a compact shape and facilitate harvesting .
• Do not prune more than 25-30% of the total plant volume per year to avoid excessive stress .

Specific techniques to improve production:

• Modified Leader Method : Maintain a dominant central stem with well-spaced lateral branches . This technique promotes better light penetration and facilitates mechanical harvesting .
• Goblet Pruning : Create an open shape in the center to maximize sun exposure to the inner fruiting branches.
• Shoot Pinching : Pinch off the tips of new shoots in summer to encourage branching and increase the number of fruiting sites .

For female varieties , it is crucial to maintain a balance between vegetative growth and fruit production . Over-pruning can reduce the following year's harvest , while under-pruning can lead to overproduction and exhaustion of the shrub .

Male plants require less intensive pruning , mainly aimed at maintaining their shape and ensuring sufficient pollen production for pollination of female plants .

By applying these specific pruning techniques , sea buckthorn growers can optimize the health of their plants, facilitate harvesting and maximize their long-term yield .

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How to recognize and prevent common sea buckthorn diseases?

Sea buckthorn , although generally resistant , can be affected by several diseases . Here are the most common ones, their rapid identification and the appropriate solutions :

Verticillium wilt:

• Symptoms : Yellowing and wilting of leaves , browning of conducting vessels .
• Identification : Cut an affected branch diagonally. If the vessels are brown , it is probably verticillium .
• Solutions :
  • Biological : Remove infected plants and avoid replanting sea buckthorn in the same location for several years.
  • Conventional : No chemical treatment is effective once the plant is infected. Prevention remains the best approach.

Canker and dieback:

• Symptoms : Sunken areas on the bark , progressive death of branches .
• Identification : Observe the bark for lesions and areas of dieback .
• Solutions :
  • Organic : Prune and burn the infected areas. Apply a paste of clay and horsetail manure to the wounds.
  • Conventional : Use a copper-based fungicide at the recommended doses.

Endomycosis:

• Symptoms : Softening and watery rot of fruit , usually in August.
• Identification : The berries become soft and watery, then their skin breaks down .
• Solutions :
  • Organic : Apply horsetail manure in spring and early summer for its antifungal action. Collect and destroy contaminated fruit.
  • Conventional : In case of a severe attack, an application of Bordeaux mixture can be effective.

Sea buckthorn moth ( Gelechia hippophaella ):

• Symptoms : Shrivelled and dried fruit, premature drop .
• Identification : Presence of larvae inside fallen fruit .
• Solutions :
  • Organic : Lay down a thick mulch (10-15 cm) in early spring to prevent butterflies from emerging from the soil. Always collect and destroy fallen berries.
  • Conventional : Use pheromone traps for monitoring and control by mating disruption .

For all these diseases, prevention remains essential :

• Ensure good ventilation of the plants
• Avoid sprinkler watering
• Maintain a balanced nutrition

If in doubt about the identification of a disease , do not hesitate to consult an expert or send samples to a specialized laboratory for an accurate diagnosis.

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What are the pests of sea buckthorn and how can you protect yourself from them effectively?

Sea buckthorn can be affected by several pests and diseases . Early identification and an integrated pest management approach are essential to protect crops :

Sea buckthorn fly ( Rhagoletis batava ):

• Symptoms : Damaged fruit with larvae inside , berries unfit for consumption .
• Prevention : Eliminate all uncultivated fruits nearby (raspberries, blackberries, wild blueberries).
• Integrated control :
  • Inspect crops regularly
  • Remove affected fruit
  • Loosen the soil around the plants
  • Sow perennial herbs in the paths

Sea buckthorn moth ( Gelechia hippophaella ):

• Symptoms : Shrivelled and dried fruit, premature drop .
• Prevention : Install thick mulch (10-15 cm) at the beginning of spring.
• Integrated pest management : Use pheromone traps for monitoring and mating disruption .

Potato leafhopper ( Empoasca fabae ):

• Symptoms : Yellowing and deformation of leaves .
• Prevention : Encourage the presence of natural auxiliaries such as ladybugs and lacewings .
• Integrated control :
  • Use insect nets
  • Apply neem preparations in case of heavy infestation

Summer tent caterpillar ( Hyphantria cucea ):

• Symptoms : Silky webs on branches, defoliation .
• Prevention : Watch for the appearance of the first webs in spring.
• Integrated control :
  • Manually remove caterpillar nests
  • Use preparations based on Bacillus thuringiensis

Recommended integrated pest management approach:

• Regular monitoring of pest populations
• Use of preventative methods such as mulching and environmental management
• Promoting natural enemies of pests
• Application of biological control methods when necessary
• Use of chemical pesticides as a last resort, in compliance with current regulations

This integrated approach helps minimize pest damage while preserving the ecological balance of the sea buckthorn orchard and reducing the environmental impact of the crop.

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What harvesting methods can be used to make sea buckthorn production profitable?

Harvesting sea buckthorn fruits is a crucial step in preserving their commercial quality . It generally takes place from the end of August to October , depending on the variety and climatic conditions .

When to harvest:

• The berries are ripe when they have an intense color throughout the fruit and the entire bunch.
• The flesh of the fruit should give slightly under pressure from your fingers.
• It is important not to delay harvesting too long to avoid the fruit becoming rancid .

Effective harvesting methods:

Harvesting by cutting branches:

• This is the most widely used method in industrialized countries .
• Cut fruiting branches using electric or hand pruners .
• This technique allows large volumes of fruit to be harvested quickly .

Freezing branches:

• After cutting, freeze the branches with their fruit .
• Freezing makes it easier to detach the berries without damaging them.

Mechanical destemming:

• Use a specialized machine to separate the frozen berries from the branches.
• This method allows large quantities of fruit to be processed quickly .

Manual harvesting (for small volumes):

• Used mainly for self-picking or on young plants .
• The output is about 1 to 1.5 kg per hour .

Preservation of commercial quality:

• Handle fruit carefully to avoid bruising .
• Process harvested fruit quickly , as it only lasts a few days in the refrigerator .
• For further processing , freeze the fruit immediately after harvest.

By adopting these harvesting techniques adapted to the scale of your production , you will be able to optimize the efficiency of the harvest while preserving the commercial quality of the sea buckthorn fruits.

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What propagation techniques are used to produce your own sea buckthorn plants?

Sea buckthorn propagation in professional production can be done by several methods, each with its advantages and limitations :

Cuttings:

This is the most commonly used and effective method for commercial sea buckthorn production . It allows the production of plants that are genetically identical to the mother plant, thus guaranteeing varietal characteristics and sex of the plants .

Benefits :

• Faithful reproduction of varietal characteristics
• Ability to produce a large number of plants quickly
• Economical method for large-scale production

Boundaries :

• Requires specific technical skills and facilities
• Success rate may vary depending on conditions and varieties

Types of cuttings:

• Woody cuttings : Taken in winter, they are easy to make but have a lower rooting rate .
• Semi-woody cuttings : Taken in summer, they generally offer a better success rate .
• Herbaceous cuttings : Taken in spring, they require more care but can give excellent results .

Layering:

This technique involves growing roots on a branch still attached to the mother plant .

Benefits :

• High success rate
• Simple method requiring no special equipment

Boundaries :

• Limited production in number of plants
• Relatively slow process

Division:

Dividing clumps or suckers is a simple method but less used in professional production.

Benefits :

• Easy to make
• Allows you to obtain more developed plants quickly

Boundaries :

• Limited number of new plants obtained
• Risk of disturbing the mother plant

For professional production , cuttings remain the preferred method due to their efficiency and ability to produce a large number of uniform plants . Semi-woody cuttings , taken in summer, generally offer the best results with a rooting rate of up to 80-90% depending on the variety.

It is important to note that regardless of the method chosen, using rooting hormones can significantly improve the success rate . However, accurate dosage is crucial to avoid damage to the cuttings .

In conclusion, for professional sea buckthorn production , semi-woody or herbaceous cuttings, combined with the judicious use of rooting hormones , offer the best compromise between efficiency , plant quality and economic profitability .

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What botanical references are useful for the professional cultivation of sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn ( Hippophae rhamnoides ) is a dioecious shrub belonging to the Elaeagnaceae family. This species is characterized by its great adaptability and its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen , which allows it to thrive in poor soils .

Botanical definition:

Sea buckthorn is defined as a group of individuals with a genotype and phenotype sufficiently similar to be able to reproduce with each other and produce viable and fertile offspring in a natural environment. This definition applies particularly well to sea buckthorn, which exhibits great genetic variability while maintaining specific consistency .

Botanical classification:

• Kingdom : Plantae (Plants)
• Phylum : Magnoliophyta (Angiosperms)
• Class : Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
• Order : Rosales
• Family : Elaeagnaceae
• Genus : Hippophae
• Species : Hippophae rhamnoides

Main biological characteristics:

• Morphology : Thorny shrub that can reach 6 meters in height , with narrow, silvery leaves .
• Reproduction : Dioecious plant , requiring separate male and female individuals for fruit production.
• Fruits : Bright orange berries , rich in vitamins C and E , carotenoids and omega-7 fatty acids .
• Adaptation : Very resistant to cold ( -43°C ) and drought , sea buckthorn can withstand extreme environmental conditions .
• Nitrogen fixation : Through a symbiosis with bacteria of the genus Frankia , sea buckthorn can fix atmospheric nitrogen , thus enriching the soil.
• Root system : Develops an extensive root network , useful for soil stabilization and erosion control .
• Longevity : Can live up to 80 years under favorable conditions .

Sea buckthorn is distinguished by its ecological versatility and multiple uses , ranging from fruit production to phytoremediation and soil stabilization . Its ability to thrive in harsh environments makes it a particularly interesting species for sustainable agriculture and ecological restoration .

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Where does sea buckthorn come from and how did its cultivation become professionalized?

Sea buckthorn ( Hippophae rhamnoides ) is a shrub with ancient origins , dating back to the end of the Ice Age . Native to the high plateaus of Asia , particularly Tibet and the Altai steppes , this plant gradually spread across Europe , the countries of the former Soviet Union and Canada over the centuries.

The earliest uses of sea buckthorn are documented in traditional Tibetan medicine , where it was used as a tonic and to treat various respiratory , gynecological , digestive , and skin conditions. Its use later spread to other traditional medicines , notably in ancient Greece , where Pliny the Elder mentioned it.

The history of sea buckthorn is closely linked to its botanical name " Hippophae rhamnoides ", which means "tree that makes horses shine" . This name comes from the belief that adding sea buckthorn leaves to horses' feed improved their coats , a practice attributed to Genghis Khan , founder of the Mongol Empire .

In Europe , sea buckthorn has naturally established itself on the coastal dunes of the Baltic Sea , in Germany , Poland , Holland , Finland and Latvia . In France and Italy , it is found mainly in mountainous regions such as the Alps and the Pyrenees , as well as on the edges of sandy lakes and rivers.

The introduction of sea buckthorn to North America is relatively recent. In Canada , the first plants were imported from Russia in the late 1930s , initially for ornamental purposes. It was only in the 1990s that commercial cultivation of sea buckthorn began to develop, particularly in Western Canada .

In Quebec , the first sea buckthorn plantation was established in 1998 on Île-d'Orléans . Since then, cultivation has gradually expanded in the province, growing from approximately 30 hectares in 2007 to an estimated 80+ hectares in 2015 .

The evolution of sea buckthorn cultivation has been marked by research and varietal selection efforts, particularly in Russia , China , Germany , Latvia and Scandinavia . This work has made it possible to develop commercial cultivars adapted to different climatic conditions and meeting the specific needs of the food and cosmetics industries.

Today, sea buckthorn is cultivated in many countries for its nutritional and medicinal properties . China has become the world's largest producer , with more than 1.33 million hectares converted into sea buckthorn groves since 1982. This expansion reflects the growing interest in this plant with its many virtues , whose thousand-year-old history continues to be written around the world.

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