University of Tasmania
Browse

File(s) not publicly available

Effects of shoot variables and canopy position on fruit set, fruit quality and starch reserves of persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) in subtropical Australia

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 03:29 authored by George, AP, Nissen, RJ, Collins, RJ, Rasmussen, TS
The influence of canopy position (sectors: N, S, E, W; tree height: top, middle and base) and shoot growth on fruit set, yield and fruit quality of the non-astringent persimmon cultivar ‘Fuyu’ trained to standard modified central leader system was evaluated in subtropical Australia (Lat. 26°S). The main aim of the study was to determine if different sections of the tree canopy produce greater quantities of export-quality fruit. Light interception, net CO2 assimilation, leaf nutrients, and starch were also measured for each canopy position. Generally, there was little or no effect of canopy position on fruit quality. In contrast, initial fruit set was highest in upper parts of the tree canopy exposed to higher irradiance. Weight of fruit removed from any position was primarily dependent on fruit set at that position. Fruit weight was poorly correlated (r < 0.30, n.s.) with leaf area, leaf number per fruit, shoot length, and shoot base diameter of fruiting shoots indicating that these variables are not useful criteria for determining thinning levels or final fruit size. The fruit disorder, calyx cavity, was least in the middle canopy. In contrast, average fruit weight, Brix, colour, texture and flavour were only slightly affected by canopy position. It was concluded from the study that, in Australia, light influences yield but not fruit quality. Export-quality fruit can be harvested from any position within the tree canopy.

History

Publication title

Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology

Volume

71

Pagination

217-226

ISSN

1462-0316

Department/School

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)

Publisher

Headley Brothers Ltd

Place of publication

Invicta Press, Ashford, England, Kent, Tn24 8Hh

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Horticultural crops not elsewhere classified

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC