Leveggazdálkodás

Leveggazdálkodás is a term used in Hungarian agriculture referring to the intentional management of the plant canopy with a focus on leaves. It aims to optimize photosynthesis, the microclimate around the foliage, and interactions with pests and diseases, while also shaping harvest quality and yield.

Practices vary by crop but typically include pruning and training to control canopy size and leaf distribution, thinning to allow light penetration and airflow, and, in some crops, selective removal of leaves around developing fruits or clusters to improve color, sugar accumulation, and reduce rot risk. Leaf litter and fallen leaves on the ground are managed through mulching, composting, or removal to influence soil organic matter, nutrient cycling, and pest habitats.

In viticulture, leaf removal around grape clusters is a common canopy management technique performed at specific phenological stages, balancing fruit exposure with protection against sunburn and heat stress. In orchard and vegetable production, similar canopy management improves light distribution, pest management via microclimate changes, and harvest uniformity. Timing, extent, and method depend on cultivar, climate, and disease pressure, and are often guided by measurements such as leaf area index and light interception.

Benefits include enhanced fruit quality, more uniform ripening, better disease management, and potential reductions in chemical inputs when integrated with other practices. The approach requires labor, careful timing, and adaptation to local conditions to avoid stress or sunburn.