The influence of rootstocks on the growth, yield and fruit quality of the plum cultivar Cacanska rana

Abstract

The paper examines the influence of three clonal rootstocks ('Pixy', 'Fereley' and 'St. Julien A') along with seedlings of Myrobalan (control) on the growth, yield and fruit quality of the plum cultivar 'Cacanska Rana'. Research was conducted in the area of the Belgrade Danube basin for the six-year period (2013-2018). In comparison to control, all three clonal rootstocks have shown a significant effect on the decrease of vigor expressed as a trunk cross-sectional area. The lowest vigor was found in trees on the 'Pixy' rootstock, then on 'Fereley' and 'St. Julien A' rootstocks. Regarding the rootstocks 'Fereley' and 'St. Julien A', significantly higher fruit set and yields were achieved in comparison to control. Clonal rootstocks induced an increase in the yield per hectare ranging from 72% to 93% compared to Myrobalan. The highest yield efficiency was found in the trees on the 'Fereley' rootstock, followed by the yields observed in the trees on the 'Pixy' and 'St. Julien A' rootstocks. Significantly higher fruit weight compared to control was obtained in the trees on the 'Fereley' rootstock. Rootstocks did not show any significant effect on the soluble solids and total acid contents of the fruit. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that all three clonal rootstocks showed better results than Myrobalan, and can be recommended for establishing intensive plum plantations with higher planting density. The best results in terms of yield and fruit quality were obtained with the 'Fereley' rootstock.