ISHS Acta Horticulturae 556: V International Congress on Hazelnut
VARIATIONS IN FLOWERING, GROWTH AND YIELD OF HAZELNUT CULTIVARS AND GROWERS’ SELECTIONS IN AUSTRALIA |
| Authors: | B. Baldwin, K. Gilchrist, L. Snare |
| Keywords: | temperature, chill hours, soil types, soil analysis, leaf analysis |
| Abstract:
Hazelnuts were introduced into Australia over 150 years ago, however they have not been grown as a major crop. Although the climate and soils in the southeastern part of the continent appear to be suitable, only a few small groves exist. The main varieties are growers’ selections rather than recognized cultivars. In recent years many cultivars have been introduced into Australia, but these have not been systematically evaluated. The objective of the research described in this paper is to study the performance of introduced cultivars and Australian selections. Four field trials have been established to evaluate 24 cultivars and growers’ selections. Two of the trials are situated in New South Wales and two in Victoria. The sites were selected to test the varieties under different climatic and soil conditions. Each site comprises a randomised block design with four replicates of each variety. Planting was undertaken in July 1995 and 1996. Automatic weather stations were installed at all sites. The nutritional status of soils and plants has been monitored. Periods of pollen shed and female bloom have been recorded during the winters of 1998 and 1999. Initial tree growth and production from the young trees shows that there are some pronounced interactions between varieties and sites. Hypotheses for these are discussed. | |
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