The results of blueberry (Vaccinium) cultivars evaluation in West Georgia conditions

摘要

Blueberry {Vaccinium) production is a promising and emerging sector for Georgia. Blueberry production is mainly concentrated in the western regions of Georgia, which has favorable agro-ecological conditions for the proper growth and development of blueberries. The main emphasis in blueberry research is on finding and identifying the most adaptable and suitable blueberry cultivars for specific humid West Georgian conditions. The study of the performance of nine new introduced blueberry cultivars was conducted in the Imereti region (West Georgia) during 2012-2016. The main aim of the research was to study phenological and agronomical traits of blueberry cultivars. Peculiarities of vegetative growth, organoleptic, and biochemical composition of the berries, productivity and fruit quality of blueberry cultivars were investigated. Also, data was collected regarding susceptibility to the main diseases. Important varietal differences were found in productivity of berries, which is correlated with qualityof fruits. According to the study results, a group of blueberry cultivars was identified: 'Patriot', 'Bluegold', etc., which are prospective for planting new blueberry plantation.