ISHS Acta Horticulturae 383: Mineral Nutrition of Deciduous Fruit Plants
NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF KIWIFRUIT AFFECTS YIELD AND FRUIT STORAGE |
| Authors: | M. Tagliavini, M. Toselli, B. Marangoni, G. Stampi, F. Pelliconi |
| Keywords: | Actinidia deliciosa, calcium, fruit size, nitrogen, phosphorus |
| Abstract:
Two approaches were used to evaluate the effects of mineral status in kiwifruit (cv. Hayward) on yield and fruit storage: (i) a fertilezer trial conducted in a mature orchard from 1989 to 1991, where mineral status was varied by yearly applications of 0, 100 and 200 kg of N per ha and 100–50 kg ha-1 of N-P; and (ii) a storage survey conducted on fruit samples collected from 20 commercial orchards. In the fertilizer trial, carried out in a P deficient soil, interrupting N supply caused a decrease in fruit size, whereas 100–50 kg ha-1 of N-P increased the percentage of acceptable-sized fruits. Nitrogen concentration in leaves collected in summer was positively related to the percentage of non-marketable fruits (over-ripe and rotten) during storage. Results of the storage survey indicate that the percentage of non-marketable fruits is positively related to the N fertilization rate (r=0.74, ***), and the N:Ca (r=0.60, **) and (N+K):Ca (r=0.50 **) ratios in fruits at harvest. After 14 weeks' storage, firm fruits had more Ca, Mg and Brix degrees than those that were soft. | |
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