Introduction to the course: the sector of tree crops systems. Principles of fruit tree biology, the biological system as integration of organs and functions; correlativity of organ development and vegetative-productive cycle of the tree.
Agro-biodiversity: varietal panoramas and outline of genetic improvement (objectives, means and results). The main tree species, minor and wild species.
Tree architecture, form determinism, dimension determinism.
Architecture of the orchard and of the agro-ecosystems (orchards, groves, vineyards). Design and planting criteria: structural and functional diversity of the main types of tree crop systems.

Relation tree-environment. The concept of environmental suitability and basis of eco-physiology; role of environmental factors (climate-soil) in the development of the fruit tree; adaptation to climate change and climate change mitigation role. Field crops and protected crops.
The use of environmental resources in agronomical techniques (water, elements of soil fertility, light): main techniques of soil management and use of water resources in arboriculture. The impact of crops on the healthiness of the environment: use of bioregulators, agro-chemicals, fertilizers. Conventional, sustainable, biological production models.

Relation on tree crop system-landscape. Definition of the concept of terroire and of agricultural landscape. Notes on the meaning and evolution of the landscape of the fruit tree. Definition of the relationship between quality production (DOP, IGP) and territory; the landscape as an added value of productions. Arboriculture landscapes: constitutive characters. Notes on the diversity of the structure, function and significance of tree crop landscapes. The new landscapes of arboriculture in urban space. The multi-functionality of arboreal systems; ecosystem services.
Crop and environmental classification of tree crop species in the Mediterranean and in Italy and their landscapes.

- Teaching material by the teacher.

In-depth text:
AA.VV. Nuove frontiere dell'arboricoltura italiana, 2009. (S. Sansavini, a cura di) Oasi A. Perdisa, Bologna.