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‘Piarom’ date (Phoenix dactylifera) is one of the semi-arid and commercially important cultivars in Iran. In Ahvaz region of Iran, most of the date cultivars, including ‘Piarom’, turn sour and fall prematurely, during the rutab stage, due to high moisture content, leading to a major yield reduction. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate different methods of artificial ripening of ‘Piarom’ dates in the khalal and rutab stages. The treatments included immersing the ‘Piarom’ fruit in acetic acid (1% and 2%) and NaCl (1%and 2%) solutions and freezing treatments for three times of 24, 48, and 72 hours. Harvesting of Khalal was done at three different times from the beginning of Khalal stage and once every two weeks. Fruit receiving an acidic acid application at 2% in all immersion and harvest treatments had the highest speed and percentage of transformation of khalal to rutab. Crop with a 2% acidic acid immersing treatment at the first and third harvests had the highest desirable fruit-finish. The highest percentage of desirable dates in the first and second harvests was related to 72- and 24-hours freezing treatments, respectively. By delaying the harvesting time, the moisture content of the khalals decreased significantly. The moisture content percentage of fruit obtained from chemical and physical treatments was higher than that of natural dates. There was no significant difference among different harvesting times regarding soluble solids concentration (SSC), titratable acidity (TA) and percentage of reducing sugar of khalal fruit. In general, the SSC of artificially ripened fruit was lower than that of natural ‘Piarom’ dates. During all three harvest times, the TA level of date fruit obtained from chemical treatments was significantly affected by the treatments. In all three harvests, there was no significant difference among chemical treatments regarding of reducing sugars percentage. In all three harvests, the reducing sugar content of frozen fruit was lower than that of natural dates. According to the study, acetic acid at 2% was more successful than other treatments if it did not have a bad effect on the taste and aroma of the fruit. Thus, we suggest that the impact of other acid-containing compounds, but without the poor taste of acidic acid, such as acid extracts from other fruit be experimented for the ripening of ‘Piarom’ date in the future.

The competitive global fruit market mandates production of apples with high quality attributes, particularly fruit color. Harpin Protein (Messenger®) is shown to trigger resistance to blue mold in apples, but limited information can be found on the effect of this compound on fruit quality. In this study, the impact of Harpin protein on quality attributes of four apple cultivars was studied. “Red Spur Delicious” apple fruit from trees receiving Harpin protein had significantly (about 23%) better color, earlier ethylene evolution, and higher respiration than those from untreated control trees, while their firmness was not adversely affected. Application of Harpin protein on “Red Chief Delicious” apple improved fruit color and increased fruit size in two locations, and advanced starch degradation pattern in one orchard but reduced fruit firmness in one location. Harpin protein tended (but not significantly) to improve fruit color in “Jonathan” and “Early Spur Rome” but reduced fruit size in “Jonathan” apples. Messenger® increased fruit percentage dry weight and Fe but decreased fruit Ca, Mg, K, and Zn. Improving apple fruit color by Harpin protein could have major impacts on apple industry and warrants further study.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the oldest fruit trees that is native to Iran and resistant to hot warm and dry climate. Excessive fruit on the tree reduces fruit size and produces fruit...

Total crop load has an inverse relationship with fruit size, while larger fruit size is often demanded by the peach and nectarine markets. Hand-thinning is extremely expensive, and thus, crop load adjustment, using blossom thinners is a crucial practice to ensure production of commercially acceptable fruit size and yield efficiency in stone fruit. In this study, the influence of branched secondary alcohol ethoxylate (Tergitol TMN-6) and/or ammonium thiosulfate (ATS), Crocker Fish Oil (FO), and a mixture of calcium polysulfides and thiosulfate (lime sulfur) on fruit set and quality attributes in peaches (Prunus persica) and nectarines (P. persica var. nectarina) were studied. All blossom thinners reduced fruit set in “Summer Lady” peach in both 2016 and 2017. Fruit sets in “Summer Lady” peach trees with a double application of Tergitol TMN-6 at the rate of 7.5 or 10 mL ·Lˉ1, each rate applied at 40% and 80% bloom, were lower than those receiving the same rates of this chemical only at 80% bloom, but they were similar to those receiving a single Tergitol TMN-6 spray at 15 mL·Lˉ1 at 80% or 100% bloom. “Summer Lady” peach trees receiving FO at 20 mL·Lˉ1 plus lime sulfur at 25 mL·Lˉ1, once at 40% bloom and again at 80% bloom had lower fruit set as compared to Untreated Control but the fruit set was higher than those with any Tergitol-TMN-6 spray. Tergitol TMN-6 at 12 m·Lˉ1 at 100% bloom or 10 mL·Lˉ1 all stages of bloom reduced fruit set in “Zee Lady” and “Snow Giant” peaches. In “Snow Giant” peach, trees receiving Tergitol TMN-6 at all concentrations and blossom stages had significantly higher fruit weight as compared to the trees of Un-treated Control. Applications of Tergitol TMN-6 at all concentrations at 80% bloom reduced fruit set in “Red Globe” and “Elberta” peaches in Utah. ATS and FO slightly reduced fruit set in peaches but they were less effective than Tergitol TMN-6 in all cases. Overall, it is concluded that efficacy of blossom thinners depends on the rate of thinners, temperature, cultivar and stage of bloom development.

The use of well-feathered nursery trees on dwarfing rootstocks is crucial for establishing high-density apple orchards to ensure early production. Training trees to develop a tall spindle canopy architecture has gained popularity in high-density orchards during the past decade. However, commercially produced nursery trees often lack feathers or are unevenly branched, making initial training decisions difficult and delaying precocious fruiting. In this project, we studied the vegetative meristem activation response to partial scoring or partial girdling of the bark cambium above the bud, with and without application of 500 ppm Promalin (gibberellin4+7 + benzyladenine), tip removal of the tree leader at the silver tip stage on April 23, 2019, Promalin spray at 500 ppm at post-bloom stage on May 7, 2019, and nitrogen (N) as UAN-32 (32% N) application at five levels (60, 80, 100, 120, or 140 g actual N/tree) on June 20, 2019, in newly planted un-feathered or unevenly branched “Aztec Fuji” trees on Budagovsky 9 (Bud 9) in southwest Idaho, USA. Grower’s Short Cut trees received a heading cut to the leader at 60 cm above the ground and resulted in the emergence of 5 - 6 strong branches near the heading cut. These trees had larger trunk cross-sectional areas than scored or girdled trees. Scoring or girdling, with or without Promalin, significantly improved branching by increasing the number of branches and bourse shoots. In many cases, the effects of partial scoring, with or without Promalin, were similar to those of bark girdling which is a more risky and time-consuming process. Branches induced by scoring and girdling had sharper crotch angles relative to the vertical leader. Spraying Promalin during the post-bloom stage at 500 ppm was not as effective as scoring or girdling to initiate branches. Additional N rates or removal of the leader tip did not significantly impact branch induction.

Indiscriminate harvest of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) from their natural habitats affects availability and endangers existence of these plants. Therefore, approaches for promoting cultivation must be sought for the maintenance of these plants and the improvement of livelihood in local communities. Understanding factors affecting cultivation of MAPs is of paramount importance, particularly in developing countries, but research on this issue is scarce. This study aimed at identifying and prioritizing driving and inhibiting factors affecting cultivation of MAPs in Rasht, Iran, using the Delphi method. Multiple-response techniques were used to analyze the content (effective factors), using properly designed questionnaires. Data were analyzed using conventional techniques such as means, variation ratios, Shannon entropy, and triangular fuzzy numbers. Crucial factors promoting the cultivation of MAPs in the region were: (1) the identification of important native medicinal species compatible with the ecological conditions of the province, (2) the establishment of facilities for processing MAPs, and (3) providing experimental spaces for the domestication of wild medicinal species. On the other hand, the most important factors inhibiting the cultivation of these plants in the region were: (1) the lack of information that would motivate cultivation of medicinal plants, (2) the lack of herbal medicine companies in the province area, and (3) the lack of coordination between research centers and environment agencies in the context of decision making. Values of Kendall’s W were found to be 0.203 for the driving factors and 0.219 for the inhibiting factors, implying agreement of the experts, so that an additional round of Delphi was not required. Findings shed light on factors that could help policy-makers at national and international level to promote the cultivation of MAPs, thus linking regular quantity of MAPs for the pharmaceutical industry and ensuring livelihood and socioeconomic development of the local communities as well as conservation of the natural resource base.

World overpopulation, scarcity of water and finite arable land mandate a more efficient use of these natural resources. To remain sustainable, modern-day apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) fruit production utilizes high-density orchards on semi-dwarfing, precocious rootstocks. Nonetheless, little attention has been paid to the use of size-controlling practices such as trunk girdling in these modern orchard systems. The impact of two rootstocks, two tree architecture (training) systems, and three levels of girdling (in spring) on chlorophyll index (CI), proline, chlorophyll content (Chl; a, b, a + b), carotenoids, anthocyanin, yield, fruit weight and leaf nitrogen (N) in “Aztec Fuji” were studied in 2015 and 2016. Trees on “Bud 9” had up to 5% higher chlorophyll indices in leaves on side branches than those on “Nic 29” at each sampling time in 2015 and 2016. However, trees on “Nic 29” had up to 5.5% chlorophyll index in terminal branches, 14% higher Chl b, 54% higher leaf proline in 2015, up to 5% higher leaf nitrogen (N) in 2015 and 2016, 82% higher yields in 2015, and up to 7% higher fruit weight in 2015 and 2016 than those on “Bud 9”. Trees trained into a central leader (CL) architecture had up to 6% higher chlorophyll index and 4% higher leaf N in terminal branches 2015 and 2016, 43% more terminal leaf proline content in 2015, but 13% less yield in 2016 than those with a tall spindle training (TS). Terminal leaves from trees receiving a bark girdling in 2015 (BG15) had up to 6.5% lower leaf N, 7% less chlorophyll index, and between 27% to 56% lower proline content than those from the ungirdled check and score girdled treatment in 2015 (SG15). Also, trees with BG15 and a bark girdling in both 2015 and 2016 (BG1516) treatments had significantly less leaf N concentration than all other treatments or the ungirdled check. Trees that were score girdled in 2015 and repeat score girdled in 2016 (SG1516) had 21% higher yield and 12% higher fruit weight than those that were ungirdled.

The impacts of cambium disconnection in ‘Aztec Fuji’ apple (Malus x domestica Borkh) trees on two rootstocks, each with either tall spindle (TS) or central leader with four lower main scaff...

The increasing scarcity of land and water for agriculture mandates an efficient use of these natural resources. Establishment of high-density orchards with the use of a size-controlling rootstock, in combination with a suitable canopy architecture, is an efficient method for fruit production. However, less attention has been paid to the use of size-controlling practices such as trunk girdling in these modern orchard systems. The impacts of two rootstocks, two tree architectures, and three levels of bark cambium cuts (girdling or scoring) on growth, yield, fruit quality attributes at harvest, and leaf nitrogen (N) in ‘Aztec Fuji’ apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) were studied in 2015 and 2016. Trees on Nic 29 had larger canopies, higher yields, and larger fruit, but lower fruit color, sunburn, and firmness than those on Bud 9. Trees with a tall spindle (TS) architecture had higher yield in 2016, higher fruit soluble solids and firmness in 2015, higher fruit russet in 2016, but shorter terminal growth in both 2015 and 2016 and lower leaf N in 2015 than did those with a central leader (CL) training system. Trees receiving a bark girdling in 2015 (BG15) or score girdling in 2015 and 2016 (SG1516) had significantly higher yield than trees on nongirdled trees (NOGD) in 2016. Bark girdling or score girdling in 2015 (BG15 or SG15) increased fruit weight (size), color, and firmness at harvest in the same year, although differences for score girdling were not always significant. However, BG15 or SG15 did not have a “carryover” effect and did not affect fruit size, color, or firmness at harvest in 2016. When bark scoring was repeated in 2016 (SG1516), fruit size was increased in 2016. On the basis of the results of this 2-year study, it appears that bark girdling in one year is sufficient to increase fruit size of the current year and the yield in the following year. If larger fruit size is the critical objective of fruit production, annual score girdling needs to be practiced. However, a further long-term study is needed to monitor the carryover effects of cambium girdling and scoring on tree performance and fruit quality attributes in the subsequent years.

In a long-term study between 2008 and 2011, the use of crop evapotranspiration (ETc), when a precise crop coefficient value (Kc) was used, provided a reliable irrigation scheduling for determination of water requirement for ‘Autumn Rose Fuji’ apple (Malus ×domestica Borkh) fully mature trees. Water use, yield, and fruit quality attributes at harvest were examined under various irrigation and nitrogen (N) systems that were scheduled using ETc. Trees with a full sprinkler (FS) system received ≈39% to 41% more water than those with a full drip (FD) system during the period of 2008–11 growing seasons. On average, mature trees with an FS system received 5927.6 L (944 mm), whereas those with an FD system received 3610.3 L of water per tree (554.9 mm) per growing season over the period of 2008 through 2011. Fruit from trees with FS and FD were larger, whereas those with 50% FS were smaller than those from all other treatments. Trees with 50% FS treatment received a higher volume of water but had smaller fruit size than those with 50% FD or 65% FD. Averaging values over 4 years revealed that applications of any form of deficit irrigation (DI), either by microjet irrigation or drip, increased fruit soluble solids concentration (SSC) and firmness but decreased water core at harvest. Considering yield, and quality attributes in this study, a well-calculated ETc-based FD irrigation system is recommended over any other irrigation regime. If application of deficit water is mandated, application of 65% FD is preferred over 50% FS, as trees with 65% FD treatment received less water while had larger fruit than those of 50% FS. Trees receiving 80 g N/tree had lower fruit color and russet than those receiving 40 g N/tree. However, other yield and quality attributes were unaffected by the rate of N fertigation.

Medicinal plants (MDPs) play a critical role in the healthcare provision of much of the world’s population, with undoubtedly increasing demand both in the number of species and in the volume of plant material being traded, but what drives demand for MDPs is not well understood. This study was conducted to evaluate factors affecting the demand for MDPs in the area of Rasht in northern Iran. A questionnaire was used as the primary means of data collection from consumers who were familiar with MDPs. The mean scores of identified favouring and disfavouring factors along with the bootstrapping confidence interval and Shannon’s entropy were used for ranking consumers’ attitudes. The main promoters of the demand were: the low complication by the consumption of MDPs, the consumers’ recommendation to others about the use of MDPs, and the lower prices of MDPs than common chemical medicines. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the main promoters could be grouped into three factors related to i) health benefits and availability of MDPs, ii) effectiveness and suitability of MDPs, and iii) price and tradition. On the other hand, the lack of insurance coverage of MDPs consumers, the lack of proper processing and packaging of MDPs, and the lack of adequate information about MDPs use by the authorities were the most important inhibiting factors of consumers’ demand for MDPs. Factor analysis revealed that the main deterrents could be grouped into four factors related to i) limited support of MDPs, ii) poor access to processed MDPs, iii) lack of alternatives and spatial limitations, and iv) uncertainty and lack of confidence. The data provide a useful snapshot of the factors affecting the demand for MDPs in Rasht of northern Iran. The information sheds some light on what drives the acceptance of MDPs by the consumers and provides interesting policy insights into the development of production concerning the sector of MDPs in northern Iran. Methodologically, the study could constitute a base for the formation of a theory for the demand of MDPs in future research.

Water shortage is a critical issue worldwide, and it may adversely impact non-food landscape plants. Thus, the impact of two levels of evapotranspiration-based (ETc) water stresses and two biostimulants consisting of abscisic acid (s-ABA) and Glycine betaine (GB) and their combined applications on perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) under climatic and soil conditions of the Intermountain West, USA were studied. Clippings with 50% ETc had higher percentage dry weight but lower fresh weight and chlorophyll index (CI) than those with 75% ETc. Performance rating of plots with 75% ETc was significantly higher (better) than those receiving the 50% ETc treatment. Clippings with the 75% ETc treatment had higher concentrations of nitrogen (N), nitrate, phosphorous (P), sulphur (S), potassium (K), sodium (Na), and copper (Cu) than those with the 50% ETc treatment. Considering all mineral nutrient values, chlorophyll indices, and performance ratings, we conclude that application of 75% ETc is sufficient for ...

This study was conducted to evaluate the influences of foliar spray of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and their combination on the fruit red skin color and quality attributes of ‘Red Delicious’ apple...

Adaptability and feasibility of table grape (Vitis vinifera or Vitis labrusca), asian pear (Pyrus pyrifolia), and quince (Cydonia oblonga) production under the high desert conditions of southwest Idaho in the Intermountain West region of the United States were studied. ‘Alborz’ table grape was harvested between 1 and 15 Sept. and with proper thinning, this cultivar had outstanding clusters and berries and could be a successful table grape for planting at commercial scales in warmer spots under conditions of this study. ‘Kashishi’ and ‘Autumn Royal’ were late-season cultivars and had large berries with excellent quality. ‘Ralli’, also called ‘Anahita’ in the Intermountain West, had attractive clusters and berry color, but was sensitive to frost and had poor production. ‘Princess’ grape was harvested between 5 and 30 Sept. and had poor fruit set, but berries had outstanding flavor. ‘Niitaka’ asian pear had the largest and firmest fruit with the lowest soluble solids concentration (SSC) among all tested asian pears. ‘Semi Dwarf Shinko’ asian pear had larger fruit than ‘Kikusui’ and ‘20th Century’ but smaller than ‘Niitaka’. However, ‘Kikusui’ and ‘20th Century’ had excellent fruit flavor and quality. Thus, ‘Kikusui’, ‘20th Century’, and ‘Niitaka’ asian pears can be chosen for planting under condition of this study. ‘Aromantnaya’ and ‘Rich’ quinces matured earlier and had lower fruit firmness than other cultivars. These cultivars can be planted for early market. Based on this study, ‘Van Deman’ can be chosen for fresh consumption if sweet cultivars are in demand by the market. However, ‘Rich’ and ‘Smyrna’ quinces can be chosen if fruit with large size and bright yellow color is preferred.

The art and science of horticulture and horticultural crops are integral parts of Iranian’s rich and ancient culture and modern economy. Many deciduous fruit, flowers, and vegetables are native to Iran (Persia), and from there, they were distributed to the rest of the world through the Silk Road established by the Achaemenid, the Royal Pars Dynasty. Variations in climate and presence of numerous mountains, lakes, rivers, and natural springs have created a unique country capable of producing all types of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Apples and other deciduous fruits are commercially produced in mountain ranges of Alborz and Zagrous and in many central provinces of Iran. The Caspian Sea area in the north of Iran is one of the most unique regions in the world where mild Mediterranean climate meshed with the adjacent Alborz mountain ranges has created a home to numerous species of edible horticultural plants, ranging from tea to cherries and pomegranates. Pistachio, olive, citrus, banana, and date are produced in Kerman, Fars, and Khuzestan regions. However, the Iranian horticultural industry faces many challenges, including global and regional political issues. Although some attempt has been made to preserve invaluable germplasm, a large number of native fruits, vegetables, and flowers are becoming extinct. Postharvest transportation and storage of horticultural crops is one of the most important issues facing Iranian horticulture. The future of horticulture in Iran can potentially be bright, and horticultural products have the potential to replace the oil income after reserves disappear, particularly if peace prevails in the region.

Tree responses to fertilizer management are complex and are influenced by the interactions between the environment, other organisms, and the combined genetics of composite trees. Increased consumer awareness of the environmental impact of agriculture has stimulated research toward increasing nutrient-use efficiency, improving environmental sustainability, and maximizing quality. Here, we highlight recent advancements and identify knowledge gaps in nutrient dynamics across the soil–rhizosphere–tree continuum for fruit crops. Beneficial soil management practices can enhance nutrient uptake and there has been significant progress in the understanding of how roots, microorganisms, and soil interact to enhance nutrient acquisition in the rhizosphere. Characterizing root architecture, in situ, still remains one of the greatest research challenges in perennial fruit research. However, the last decade has advanced the characterization of root nutrient uptake and transport in plants but studies in tree fruit crops have been limited. Calcium, and its balance relative to other macronutrients, has been a primary focus for mineral nutrient research because of its important contributions to the development of physiological disorders. However, annual elemental redistribution makes these interactions complex. The development of new approaches for measuring nutrient movement in soil and plant systems will be critical for achieving sustainable production of high-quality fruit in the future.

Tree architectures play a critical role in the productivity of high-density orchards, but limited information is available in this subject. We studied effects of three branch configurations on tree growth, yield components, fruit quality and leaf mineral nutrients in ‘Aztec Fuji’ apple (Malus domestica Bork.) in a single row upright high-density system under southwest Idaho, USA conditions over 2012-2016. This study revealed that trees trained into a Tall Spindle (TS) had larger trunk cross sectional area (TCSA) than those with an Overlapped Arm (OA) system. Trees trained into a TS had higher number of fruit and yield per tree, three years after planting in 2012, than those with a Tipping Arm (TA) or OA system. However, in 2013, trees with a TA system had higher yield than those with a TS or OA configuration due to trees’ biennial bearing habit and higher spur formation in trees with a TA system. Trees receiving a TA training had lower biennial bearing index between all consecutive years. Trees with an OA training had smaller fruit than those with either a TA or TS training in all years between 2012-2016. Training systems did not have any effect on fruit color, soluble solids concentration, or starch degradation pattern at harvest. However, fruit from trees with an OA training had higher firmness and lower water core than those from trees with a TS or TA training. Leaves from trees receiving a TA training had greater leaf area, fresh weight, and potassium (K) and magnesium (Mn) concentrations than those with other trainings. Leaves from trees receiving an OA training had higher leaf iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) than those with a TS training. In this study, we concluded that training trees into a TA configuration rather than an OA system is recommended if the management and operation of apple production mandate the use of an “upright wall” structure to facilitate mechanical harvesting.

Fruit thinning in stone fruit is an essential but costly cultural practice. Excessive fruit load can lead to lower fruit quality and tree and branch breakage. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of foliar gibberrelic acid (GA3) sprays at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg L−1 on fruit set and fruit quality of apricot trees (Prunus armeniaca L. cv. Shadoo) during the following season. Applications were made in mid May and mid June at about 6 and 10 weeks after full bloom. The results showed that application of GA3 at 50 or 100 mg L−1 sprayed at mid May effectively impacted several quality attributes, including fruit weight, length, and diameter. Based on this study, application of GA could have a major potential for thinning apricots at commercial scales.

Introduction. Iranian almond germplasm is regarded as one of the most diverse and valuable genetics resources for almond improvement. Materials and methods. In the present study, 155 almond genotypes were evaluated to determine the overall degree of variation and to detect superior trees. The variation was observed for traits related to phenology, morphology, yield and fruit quality. Results and discussion. Nut and kernel traits contributed most of the total variation but there were also significant differences in flowering and ripening times. The majority of important correlations were determined between the characteristics representing nut size and kernel size. Cluster and principal component analyses confirmed considerable diversity in the studied germplasm. Conclusion. Genotypes MSh11, MSh100, MSh97, MSh24 and MSh126 were the best trees in terms of flowering season, consistently high fruit set, large nut and kernel size, and low percentage of double kernels. Furthermore, genotypes MSh9 and MSh110 were very late flowering and could be useful in breeding to improve flowering season of almond.

‘Fuji’ apple (Malus ×domestica Borkh) has gained popularity in the past decades, but poor color of this apple mandates introduction of new strains. To pursue this objective, long-term effects of five ‘Fuji’ apple strains, consisting of ‘Autumn Rose’, ‘Desert Rose’, ‘Myra’, ‘September Wonder’, and ‘Top Export’ on RN 29 rootstock on fruit yield (in 7 years) and harvest time quality attributes (in 6 years) under climate conditions of southwest Idaho were studied during 2004–10. Fruit of ‘September Wonder Fuji’ trees were larger than those of other strains in 5 of 6 years. The type or pattern of peel color among the “low-coloring” and “high-coloring” strains varied widely. Fruits of ‘Autumn Rose Fuji’, ‘Myra Fuji’, and ‘Top Export Fuji’ always had less but ‘September Wonder Fuji’ and ‘Desert Rose Fuji’ had more red color. Fruit of ‘September Wonder Fuji’ had lower firmness but higher starch degradation pattern (SDP) than those of other strains every year as a result of the earlier maturity of this strain. Fruit of ‘Top Export Fuji’ had the lowest SDP among all strains. Fruit of ‘Autumn Rose Fuji’ tended to have lower soluble solids concentration in 3 of 6 years of this study. Considering all yield and quality attributes at harvest, ‘September Wonder’ was a great choice for an early-maturing and ‘Desert Rose’ was suitable for a late-maturing ‘Fuji’ strain. ‘Myra Fuji’ was particularly desirable for its attractive pink color that resembles bagged ‘Fuji’ without the expensive cost of labor associated with bagging.

A wide range of Boron-containing compounds is available in the world market, with different formulations and efficiencies. Among these compounds, nano-chelated products are becoming popular, although there is only limited information on their efficiency. Thus, this study considers the effects of boron nano-chelated fertilizer and boric acid foliar sprays on fruit and oil yield in olive cv. ‘Zard’. Their quality attributes were studied during the growing seasons of 2017 and 2018. Fertilizers were used at the concentration of 105 (B1) and 158.8 (B2) mg boric acid, 200 (nano-B1) and 300 (nano-B2) mg nano-chelated boron, corresponding to 180 mg (B1 and nano-B1) and 270 mg (B2 and nano-B2) pure boron per liter. Spraying with water was considered as the control (B0). Fruit characteristics were affected mainly by nano treatments and fruit yield efficiency increased by the use of nano-B2. In spite of the heavy fruit weight and yield, the nano-B2 caused a lower amount of oil accumulation in fruits. A high oil percentage was achieved by the treatment of boron (B2) which resulted in a low crop load. Traits such as oil yield, free fatty acids, antioxidant activity and total phenol content were improved by the application of nano-B2 fertilizer. Fatty acid composition was affected by B1 foliar application. Generally, the data obtained from this study showed that nano-B2 could provide beneficial effects on the growth, fruit and oil yield rather than on oil percentage. The main fatty acid composition was influenced more by boric acid treatments.

Rain-induced fruit cracking in sweet cherries can be a major problem. In the Pacific Northwest United States, due to high labor costs, when fruit cracking exceeds 25% at harvest, fruit are not picked. Oregon State University Horticulture and Pharmacy Faculty have collaborated in producing and patenting a novel, elastic, organic biofilm, SureSeal, which significantly reduced sweet cherry fruit cracking by up to 250% in Milton Freewater, Oregon and Loftus, Norway. Formulations of SureSeal are hydrophobic and consist of a copolymer of complex carbohydrates, phospholipids and calcium. Collaborative research undertaken over three years throughout the Pacific Northwest and overseas found that two applications of 1% SureSeal applied at straw color, and again ten days later, reduced fruit cracking con-sistently when compared to untreated control fruit. In Norway, fruit cracking was reduced from 24.6 to 9.8% when trees were treated with SureSeal in combination with plastic ground covers and a preharvest fungicide (fenhexamid). Furthermore, studies throughout Oregon and Idaho found that SureSeal resulted in significantly (P

The effects of four rootstocks and two irrigation systems on tree growth, and fruit quality after storage in ‘Pacific Gala’ apple [(Malus × domestica) Borkh] were examined. Trees on ‘Budagovsky 9’ (‘B.9’) had a smaller trunk cross sectional area (TCA) and higher yield efficiency, while those on ‘Supporter4’ (‘Sup.4’) had larger TCA and lower yield efficiency than those on other rootstocks. Trees on ‘Nic.29’ (‘RN29’) had higher yield per tree as compared to those on other rootstocks. Trees on ‘RN29’ often had higher fruit weight, while trees on ‘B.9’ had lower fruit weight than did those on other rootstocks. Trees on ‘Sup.4’had lower yields and smaller fruits than those on ‘RN29’ every year. Fruits from trees on ‘B.9’ and ‘Cornell-Geneva30’ (‘CG.30’) often had higher soluble solids concentration (SSC) than other rootstocks at harvest and after storage. Fruits from trees on ‘CG.30’ also had higher fruit spoilage after storage. Trees with full sprinkler (FS) irrigation had higher TCA than those with the full...

ADDITIONAL INDEX WORDS. Malus domestica, mineral nutrition, supplementary nutrients, uptake mechanism, urea spray SUMMARY. Foliar fertilization is a common practice to supply crops with mineral nutrients, especially under limited soil nutrient availability conditions. However, foliar-applied nutrients have to overcome the barrier properties of leaf surface to be absorbed by plants. Various pathways are reported to explain the penetration of foliar nutrients through the leaf tissues. Meanwhile, we believe that air humidity is one of the main controlling factors in this process since it controls both the actual nutrient concentration on the leaf surface as the driving force of absorption and the permeability of the leaf surface. Postharvest and prebloom foliar nitrogen sprays are applied to enhance flower bud vigor, and calcium (Ca) is applied directly to fruit during the growing season to reduce fruit susceptibility to physiological disorders. Micronutrients typically are applied in foliar sprays to uniformly distribute the small quantities of these required nutrients. In this report, we focus on the principles of foliar nutrient uptake and impacts of foliar urea and Ca sprays on fruit quality attributes of ‘Fuji’ apples (Malus domestica). Based on our studies, a ground application of urea is critical for a higher production of ‘Fuji’ apple.

During various ages of tree between 2002 and 2007, the effects of four rootstocks and two irrigation systems using a crop evapotranspiration-based (ETc) water scheduling on water use, tree growth, yield, and fruit quality at harvest in ‘Pacific Gala’ apple [(Malus ×domestica) Borkh] were studied. The use of ETc when a precise crop coefficient value (Kc), modified by percentage of ground shade (GS) and tree canopy maturity (M) was used, provided a reliable tool for irrigation scheduling of ‘Pacific Gala’ apple. Young trees with a full sprinkler (FS) system received an average of 872.3 mm (5616.8 L/tree), whereas those with full drip (FD) received 448.9 mm (2921.1 L/tree). However, when trees were mature, trees with a FS system received an average of 994 mm (6461.7 L/tree), whereas trees with a FD received 614.1 mm (3996 L/tree) of irrigation water per growing season. Trees on ‘Budagovsky 9’ (‘B.9’) had smaller trunk cross-sectional area (TCA) and higher yield efficiency, whereas those on ‘Supporter4’ (‘Sup.4’) had larger TCA and lower yield efficiency than those on other rootstocks in all years of the study. Trees on ‘Nic.9’ (‘RN29’) always had higher yield per tree as compared with those on other rootstocks. Trees on ‘RN29’ often had higher but trees on ‘B.9’ had lower fruit weight than did those on other rootstocks. Trees on ‘Sup.4’, despite their lower yields, had smaller fruits than those on ‘RN29’ every year and thus were not suitable for planting. Fruit from trees on ‘B.9’ and ‘Cornell-Geneva30’ (‘G.30’) often had higher soluble solids concentration (SSC) and starch degradation pattern (SDP) than those other rootstocks. Fruits from trees on ‘G.30’ also had lower firmness and higher stem-end cracking, suggesting that this rootstock advances maturity in ‘Pacific Gala’ apple. Trees with FS irrigation had higher TCA than those with the FD system. Trees with the FD system were more precocious and had higher yield per tree, yield efficiency, and fruit weight than trees with the FS system when they were young. However, these differences were not significant when trees matured. ‘Pacific Gala’ fruit from trees with FS consistently had better color than those with the FD system every year. Fruits from young trees with the FD system often had higher SDP and lower firmness than those from FS irrigation.

SummaryUse of an efficient rootstock and irrigation system are essential to establish a high-density orchard with a high production potential. High production becomes more important as World population increases and the availability of usable agricultural land and irrigation water decrease. Rootstock vigour and irrigation method are among the most important factors that affect the uptake of mineral nutrients and thus tree growth, fruit yield, and fruit quality attributes in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.). The effects of four rootstocks and two irrigation systems on leaf size and mineral nutrition, and on the interaction between leaf nutrient concentrations, growth, and fruit quality attributes were studied over 4 years in ‘Pacific Gala’ apple. Evapotranspiration (ETc)-based irrigation scheduling, adjusted for the percentage of ground shading, was used for both the sprinkler and drip irrigation systems. Leaf calcium (Ca) concentrations decreased, but leaf potassium (K) concentrations increased with incre...

Freezing injury is one of the most important limiting factors in commercial pomegranate production. The objectives of this study were to compare cold hardiness of seven Iranian pomegranate cultivars at three stages: November, January, and March, and to investigate the relationship between freezing tolerance and soluble carbohydrate and proline changes of shoots during acclimation and deacclimation. LT50 values, estimated by both electrolyte leakage measurement (EL LT50) and tetrazolium stain test (TST LT50), allowed us to discriminate between the cultivars in terms of freezing tolerance. Acclimation and deacclimation did not occur simultaneously in different cultivars, having a key role in cold tolerance of cultivars, especially in fall and late winter. Post Sefid Bafgh cultivar showed high cold tolerance early in fall, but it was susceptible to cold during winter. ‘Naderi’, ‘Yusef Khani’, ‘Malas Saveh’, and ‘Robab Neyriz’ had the highest midwinter cold hardiness; ‘Mahabadi’ showed an intermediate hardiness, whereas ‘Post Sefid Bafgh’ and ‘Shishe Kap’ were found to be cold-susceptible in this period. Freezing tolerance estimated by TST corresponded to those measured by the EL method in all cultivars, but in November and January, higher variation in freezing tolerance was observed among the cultivars through TST compared with EL measurement. However, LT50 values, estimated by EL measurement, were lower than those estimated through TST in November and March. Soluble carbohydrate concentrations of stem samples increased during cold acclimation from November to January; then it decreased in March. Proline had a narrow range of variation among the cultivars in November, but an increase in the amount of proline was observed during the period of hardening. In general, stronger correlations were observed between LT50 values and the amounts of soluble carbohydrates compared with proline, particularly from fall to midwinter.

The increasing trend in the world population and decreasing trend in the suitable land for fruit production, combined with a shortage of water, mandate the use of efficient methods of irrigation and establishment of high-density orchards that require size-controlling rootstocks. Method of irrigation and vigor of rootstock are among the most important factors affecting uptake of mineral nutrients, and thus tree growth and fruit yield and quality attributes of apple (Malus domestica). In a long-term experiment, effects of two irrigation methods and four rootstocks on water use, tree growth, fruit quality, and leaf mineral nutrients were studied in ‘Pacific Gala’ apple. The experiment was conducted in southwestern Idaho, which represents the high desert conditions of the Intermountain West region of the United States. Evapotranspiration-based irrigation scheduling (ETc), adjusted by percentage of ground shading, was used for sprinkler and drip systems. Significantly lower volume of water was applied to the trees with drip irrigation than those with sprinkler irrigation system. Leaf calcium (Ca) decreased but leaf potassium (K) increased with rootstock vigor, resulting in the greatest leaf Ca but lowest leaf K in trees on ‘Budagovsky 9’ (B.9). Fruit weight and yield per tree in ‘Pacific Gala’ on ‘Nic 29’ (RN29) rootstock was higher than those on B.9 and ‘Geneva 30’ (G.30) rootstocks. ‘Pacific Gala’ on B.9 rootstock had smaller trees and fruit size but higher fruit starch degradation pattern (SDP), suggesting earlier fruit maturity on this rootstock. On average, ‘Pacific Gala’ trees with drip irrigation had larger fruit and higher leaf magnesium (Mg) and manganese (Mn) but less fruit color and firmness and lower leaf Ca, K, zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) than those with sprinkler system.

The trend of postharvest changes in sweet cherry (Prunus avium) cv. Siah-e Mashhad, sour cherry (Prunus cerasus) cv. Erdi Bőtermő and Iranian local cultivar named Albaloo Mohallai were investigated. The traits were recorded included antioxidant activity, total anthocyanin and phenolic content, flesh firmness, titratable acidity (TA), soluble solids concentration (SSC), Juice pH, SSC/TA ratio and percentage of weight loss. They were evaluated at harvest after 15, 30, 45 and 60 days of storage in packages with modified atmosphere (MAP) and regular atmosphere (RAP) (control) and refrigerated at 0 ± 1°C. The results showed that the fruits packed in modified atmosphere had better quality than the ones packed in air due to higher SSC, TA, firmness, and lower pH, SSC/TA ratio and weight loss. All quality attributes diminished with storage time, while fruit firmness did not exhibit any particular trend during storage. The trends of total anthocyanin, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity during storage varied, depending on the cherry type. The negative correlation between antioxidant activity and fruit deformation (r from −0.49 to −0.72) was found.

The market value of grape ‘Beidaneh Ghermez’, which is one of the most popular cultivar of table grapes in Iran, is dependant upon its desirable appearance (red color). Its color is relatively poor in Zanjan province, Iran. The research was conducted to study the effects of of ethephon and abscisic acid (ABA) at four dosages (0, 100, 200, 300 ppm) at 20 to 30% verasion of berries on skin color quality of ‘Beidaneh Ghermez’ during two seasons (2007-2008). Application of ABA was more effective than ethephon for enhancing the color and maintaining quality of fruits. The ABA application significantly increased berry total anthocyanin content. Total berry skin smart anthocyanin (extracted and absorbance at 520 nm) was associated with skin color. ABA-treated grapes were characterized by superior appearance both in berries and clusters, compared to ethephon-treated and un-treated control grapes. Grape treated with ABA showed higher firmness and soluble solids concentrations than the control. Firmness decreased with increasing ethephon dosages (up to 200 ppm). Berry size (berry weight) increased by ethephon application. Ethephon application enhanced fruit ripening, which is very important to avoid rain cracking.

Additional index words. crop evapotranspiration, deficit irrigation, Malus ·domestica partial root zone drying, water budget Abstract. Use of crop evapotranspiration (ETc), when a precise crop coefficient value (Kc) is used, provides a reliable tool (irrigation scheduling) for determination of water requirement. In this process, Kc should be modified by percentage of ground shade (GS) and tree canopy maturity (M). In an experiment in Idaho with ET-based irrigation scheduling, each tree with a full microjet sprinkler system received an average of 6461.7 L (994 mm), whereas each one with a full drip system used 3996 L (614.1 mm) of irrigation water. In general, deficit drip irrigation was shown to initially increase yield as a result of induction of stress and the production of a higher number of fruit spurs. However, production declined if the extreme water deficiency was repeatedly applied to the trees over several years. Using a microjet sprinkler system, a partial root zone drying regime reduced fruit size but slightly improved fruit color. Application of water at 65% full drip rate, applied on both sides of the tree row (DD), reduced fruit size. However, when the 65% of full drip rate was applied to only one of the alternating sides of the tree every other week (PRD), fruit size was larger than those with DD treatment.

Historically, nutritional research in fruit crops has emphasized the development of strategies to overcome soil and plant limitations resulting in nutrient deficiencies. Recently the emphasis has been placed on N and Ca, the nutrients most closely associated with fruit quality. Major global change factors are likely to affect the future conduct of nutritional research. These issues include the possible consequences of climate change, effects of high energy costs, efforts to maintain environmental quality, and also a secure supply of high quality fruit. Possible responses include precision horticulture with more targeted nutrient management. This in turn will require improved understanding of application efficiencies and the timing and magnitude of nutrient demand in order to synchronize fertilization more closely with plant requirements. Reductions in spatial and temporal variation in plant nutritional status should be investigated with respect to the potential to improve overall fruit yield and quality. Improvements in application technology to allow differential fertilization of individual plants would improve the flexibility of fertigation. Efforts to adopt more environmentally benign low input and organic production systems will require improved understanding of nutrient availability from organic and biological amendments. Improved genetic and molecular understanding of the complex processes comprising nutrient uptake, assimilation and recycling will need to be paralleled by similar efforts to understand nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

Several mineral nutrients can influence fruit quality and disorders of apple. Among these, nitrogen (N), potassium (K), phosphorous (P), calcium (Ca), and boron (B) are most often correlated to apple fruit quality and disorders. Leaf mineral analysis is a useful tool to diagnosis apple tree deficiencies but often is poorly related to fruit quality. Using fruit analysis alone or in combination with leaf analysis often permits more precise prediction of fruit quality. Over the last several years, we have developed several models for predicting apple fruit quality. In addition, we have examined the effects of various orchard factors and cultural practices, such as irrigation, rootstocks, and fertigation and foliar application of nutritional sprays, on apple fruit mineral composition and quality. A ranking of major minerals has been developed that predicts fruit quality within a year and between years. Increasing fruit N is inversely related to fruit yellow or red colour and positively associated with fruit respiration and ethylene. Fruit Ca tends to be imprecisely related to bitter pit and fruit firmness. Potassium fertigation in four apple cultivars increased fruit size, yield, acidity, and colour, but decreased firmness at harvest. Multiple sprays of soluble Ca often reduce bitter pit and usually but not always increase Ca concentrations in subdermal cortical tissue. Early-season Ca sprays often are more effective than later sprays at reducing bitter pit; however, later applications of Ca have a greater influence on fruit Ca concentration. The B concentration of apple fruit is much more strongly affected by early season B sprays that are B in leaves. Fruit from B-sprayed trees may exhibit quality loss due to B excess even though leaf B appears normal. Water stress reduced leaf and fruit K but increased leaf Mg. An overview of several orchard factors on mineral nutrition and fruit quality and disorders will be presented.