Orchards generally enable markets to be supplied with fresh fruit or fruit intended for industrial transformation (preserves, jams, etc.). Fruit crops often provide a secondary income source for certain farms which use their remaining space to plant high stem trees. A fertile and healthy soil with a high level of vitality is vital for growing an orchard. So, it is better to avoid planting one on a valley floor (cold air, stagnant water) or near oak trees (which limit the growth of fruit trees). Sunlight is vital for healthy fruit trees, especially peach trees, apricot trees and almond trees. It is therefore recommended to plant orchards facing south, south-west and, to a lesser extent, south-west. In general, fruit trees are planted between the end of November and the end of March.