| Abstrakt: |
In terms of growth, yield and fruit quality, three lemon varieties ('Fino49' F49, 'Verna50' V50 and 'FinoElche' FE) were tested on three new hybrid root stock selections (Forner- Alcaide 2324, Forner-Alcaide 418 and Forner-Alcaide 5). Yield was weighed within a nine year period and fruit quality was determined in two harvests. Tree size was similar on the Forner-Alcaide 5 and Forner-Alcaide 2324 rootstocks, but reduced by 50% on Forner-Alcaide 418. Forner-Alcaide 2324 and the Forner-Alcaide 5 rootstocks showed similar cumulative yield, while it was decreased by 66% in Forner-Alcaide 418. In all cases, 'Verna50' was the less efficient scion. Rootstock was found to significantly affect fruit quality variables. The Forner-Alcaide 418 rootstock induced the lowest peel thickness and peel percentage, but the highest juice content and colour index. Forner-Alcaide 5, together with Forner-Alcaide 418, showed the highest total soluble sugars. In conclusion, both the Forner-Alcaide 5 and Forner-Alcaide 2324 rootstocks generate standard tree size and high yield in the varieties tested, together with great fruit quality, being a suitable alternative for replacing C. macrophylla rootstock when used in lemon varieties. Forner-Alcaide 418 reduces tree size without decreasing yield efficiency and improves alternate-bearing of the harvest. Thus, it may have use in intensifying citrus production as it behaves as a dwarfing rootstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
