Meyvebitki

Meyvebitki is the Turkish term for fruit plants, referring to plants that bear edible fruit. These plants can be trees, shrubs, or vines and are cultivated primarily for fruit production, though some may also be grown for ornamental value or pollinator support. Meyvebitkileri include a wide range of species across many plant families.

Common examples include Malus domestica (apple), Prunus persica (peach), Prunus armeniaca (apricot), Vitis vinifera (grape), Citrus species (orange, lemon), Musa species (banana), and Fragaria × ananassa (strawberry). While many well-known fruit crops are woody perennials, some herbaceous plants such as strawberry also fall under this category because they produce edible fruits.

Biologically, the fruit is typically the mature ovary of a flowering plant and develops after successful pollination and fertilization. Fruit can be fleshy or dry, and its structure influences harvesting, storage, and culinary use. The yield of meyvebitkileri depends on cultivar selection, climate, soil conditions, and management practices, including pruning, thinning, and protecting against pests and diseases.

Cultivation practices vary by species but often require well-drained soil, adequate sunlight, and appropriate irrigation and fertilization. Propagation methods include seeds, cuttings, grafting or budding, with grafting being common for many fruit trees to combine desirable fruiting cultivars with resilient rootstocks. Integrated pest management and careful post-harvest handling are important to maintain quality and shelf life.

Economically, meyvebitkileri constitute a major agricultural sector in many regions, supporting food security, rural livelihoods, and international trade, while also influencing cultural and culinary traditions.