Growth, phenology and fruit set of Prunus armeniaca L. (cv. Ninfa) grafted on two rootstocks in organic and conventional management

Abstract

Tree growth, flowering, yield and fruit quality of Prunus armeniaca L. cv. Ninfa grafted on peach cv. Nemaguard [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] and cv. Real Fino apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) as rootstocks were analysed in experimental orchard under organic and conventional management systems. The study was performed during 2012–2013 in the province of Seville (SW Spain). Cv. Nemaguard rootstock had larger cross-sectional areas of the trunk (TCSA), higher yields, began flowering earlier and lasted 2–4 days more. The organic management resulted in lower values of TCSA and yield, and flowering was delayed and shortened. Overall, cv. Nemaguard rootstock produced slightly larger fruit in size and heavier weight. In contrast, apricots from cv. Real Fino had slightly higher soluble solid concentration. Acidity and maturity index were similar, while colour and firmness showed high variability. In general, the organic system produced fruit with soluble solid concentration somewhat higher. In summary, in both types of management cv. Nemaguard worked better than cv. Real Fino in terms of tree vigour, fruit yield and bloom period.