The objects of management of a local orchard set out the purposes of the enterprise, if necessary in order of priority, so that they are perfectly clear. It might be helpful to think of them as falling into three broad categories: production (whether of fruit, honey, mistletoe, poultry, grazing animals etc.), conservation (whether of historic landscape, wildlife or local distinctiveness), and personal or social aims (whether charitable or not), including education and research.

In practice, the objects are likely to be some mixture of the three and will differ from orchard to orchard. They must be clear at the outset because they affect everything that follows, even if you have small-scale plans. For illustration, the following are examples of objects, couched in general terms (there are of course an indefinite number more):

 To be self-sustaining in agronomy, organization and incentive (ie. profit, however denominated).

To provide a hobby (retirement enterprise, one or more paid jobs etc.).

To produce enough fruit to satisfy a certain local demand whether for fresh fruit, juice, cider, preserves etc.

To provide a fitting setting for a house or garden, or to provide a pleasing landscape feature.

To harvest/store fruit over as long a season as possible.

To contribute to the local or family economy.

To fulfil a charitable purpose.

To grow varieties consistent with a social or historical context.

To grow many varieties not otherwise available in commerce to increase the diversity of local food.

To grow many varieties to add horticultural interest or permit experimentation.

To maximize local or family participation in orchard work and fruit processing, providing opportunities for outdoor manual labour and working together.

To disseminate knowledge of fruit, fruit growing and processing.

To minimize mechanized energy and other inputs, especially if unskilled participation in orchard work is anticipated.

To grow produce free of biocide residues, to minimize food miles, increase food security etc.

To promote wildlife conservation or landscape values.

To keep records sufficient for continuity and good management.

To qualify for grant aid.

To propagate rootstocks and varieties to allow for experimentation, to keep costs down etc.

To breed new varieties.