Climate Affects Fruit Shape of Four Low-chill Peach Cultivars in

摘要

Fruit of four low-chill peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] cultivars were evaluated for blossom end shape and suture deformation at three locations ranging from north-central to southwest Florida. During 2005, representative fruit of each cultivar were measured at all locations for cheek diameter, suture diameter, and tip protrusion. Suture deformation was calculated by dividing suture diameter by cheek diameter for individual fruits. Fruit tips were subjectively rated as being protruded, flush, or recessed. Protruding tips and suture deformation were more pronounced at the southwest location than at the north-central or central locations. Overall, 'TropieBeauty' had more protruding tips than the other cultivars. It is likely that warmer temperatures at the southwest location during fruit development increased the incidence of protruding tips and pronounced sutures.