EFFECT OF SHOOT INCLINATION AND FRUIT POSITION ON FRUIT QUALITY IN PEACH 'NECTAROSS'

Abstract

This study examines the effect of various natural shoot inclination (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) on size and some fruit quality traits in peach. That parameters were also examined in shoots having their inclination artificially modified one month before harvest. Effect of fruit position along the shoot was also assessed. Natural shoot inclination affected fruit quality: shoots oriented at 45° showed highest fruit size, weight and soluble solids content; shoots at 135° produced smaller and lighter fruits with less soluble solids. Firmness was higher for the fruits on vertical shoots (0°) and lower for the fruits on 135° shoots. The artificial modification of the inclination reduced soluble solids content whereas had no significant effects on the other parameters. Fruit size was bigger for the fruits in the distal portion of the shoot and smaller in the basal portion only in the first harvest date. Soluble solids content was higher in the basal fruits and decreased toward the top of the shoot. Fruit firmness didn’t show significant differences related to fruit position.