Abstract:
Fourteen (14) apricot varieties from different countries have been evaluated according to their characteristics at the Agricultural Research Station of Rhodes during the period 1989–1996 in order to select the varieties which are better adapted to the Dodecanessos area and have the desirable characteristics.
Apricot seedlings grafted, were planted in soil with 29,4–32,3% gr CaCO3, per four trees repeated twice at a distance of 5 X 5 m, in 1989.
Observations were taken during the vegetative period for the characteristics of blooming, productivity, vigour of the tree, ripening period, quality of fruit and sensitivity to Sharka.
The following varieties were judged suitable for the Dodecanessos area: 1) For the early time of maturity varieties Sayeb is a productive variety although its fruits are small, and Proimo Tirynthos, Precoce de Bulbon and Canino because they are productive and they have very big fruits. 2) For the late time of maturity, varieties: Bergeron and Bebecou because of their productivity and fruit quality and Rouge Tardif Delbard because of its excellent fruit quality although the production is moderate.
We do not advise Blenheim because of its small productivity and very small fruits, Hatif Colomer because, although it produced fruits quickly, its quality and size were not satisfactory.
The varieties Baracca, Bocuccia, Grossa del jardino and Ricordo di Buonamico can be used for family consumption.
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