Varietal and yearly variations in fruit and endocarp weights and their ratio in Japanese apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.) cultivars [Japanese]

摘要

Fruit and endocarp (stone) weights and their ratios in 57 Japanese apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.) cultivars grown at the National Institute of Fruit Tree Science were investigated. Large differences among cultivars were detected in the fruit and stone weights but a statistically significant correlation exists between the two parameters. In average, stones contributed 9.7 % to total fruit weight. Two cultivars closely related to apricot and plum, 'Takadaume' and 'Sumomoume' have particularly low percentages of stone weight. The coefficient of yearly variation of stone weight is low in comparison to that of fruit weight. Fruit that weigh between 25 and 35 g, with stones weighing 2.0 to 2.8 g or 8 %, respectively, or less, are desirable for the production of pickled fruits. Using these criteria, 'Baigo', 'Kensaki', 'Benisashi', 'Gecchibai' and 'Kairyo uchidaume' were identified as promising source cultivars for the development of lines that meet the requirements of pickled fruit producers.