The Influence of Climate on Fruit Development and Quality of Four Low-chill Peach Cultivars

Abstract

<jats:p>The effect of climate was observed on fruit quality of four low-chill peach cultivars (Flordaprince, Flordaglo, UFGold, and TropicBeauty). The cultivars were evaluated in three locations (north–central, central, and southwest Florida). Soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), SSC:TA ratio, fruit weight, blush, and fruit development period (FDP) were determined. Longer FDPs were observed at the north–central location than at the southwest location. Fruit development and the expression of quality attributes were affected by location during fruit growth with higher color and SSC and shorter FDP occurring under warmer conditions. Within locations, ‘UFGold’ had the shortest FDP except at the southwest location where its chilling requirement may not have been met. At the central and southwest locations, ‘UFGold’ also tended to have lower TA values and higher SSC;TA ratios than the other cultivars.</jats:p>

Nitrogen fertilization rates in a subtropical peach orchard: effects on tree vigor and fruit quality

“…The trees were pruned in this way in order to be 2.8 m in height, as is done in commercial orchards in Florida. In other N studies, pruning was done only in the summer or was not reported . Pruning and fruit thinning decrease yield in peach trees, because of the removal of flower buds during winter pruning and the removal of fruit to obtain fruit of larger diameter .…”

“…In other N studies, pruning was done only in the summer 10,20 or was not reported. 27,41,57,61 Pruning and fruit thinning decrease yield in peach trees, because of the removal of flower buds during winter pruning and the removal of fruit to obtain fruit of larger diameter. 58,59 Even though thinning decreases yield, the increase in fruit size improves marketability, which makes the practice cost-effective.…”

“…In Florida, an established peach production ranch of about 40 acres (16.2 ha) requires N at 787 kg per year, using the actual recommended rates, which represents US $19 800 every season . Previous research on low‐chill peach cultivars in Florida indicated that the fruit developmental period (FDP) is extended by increasing N fertilization . Longer FDPs allow for increased cell size and consequently larger fruit size, but also delay harvest date, which may affect fruit quality and market price …”

“…40 Previous research on low-chill peach cultivars in Florida indicated that the fruit developmental period (FDP) is extended by increasing N fertilization. 10,41 Longer FDPs allow for increased cell size and consequently larger fruit size, but also delay harvest date, which may affect fruit quality and market price. 10 Therefore, it is important to know the N requirements of peach trees under local conditions to help establish an appropriate N fertilization recommendation.…”

Profiling diversity and comparison of Eastern and Western cultivars of Prunus persica based on phenotypic traits

“…On the other hand, Zaragoza has a semi-arid climate with 17-mm average monthly rainfall during July and August (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología 2010). Weather in the form of precipitation and cloud cover may affect fruit quality if it occurs during the latter stages of fruit development (Wert et al 2009). In Republic of Korea, SSC reduction induced by heavy precipitation is a serious problem in quality aspects (Kwon et al 2008).…”