EFFECT OF ALTITUDE ON GROWTH-DEVELOPMENT AND FRUIT QUALITY ATTRIBUTES OF KIWIFRUIT (Actinidia deliciosa PLANCH) CULTIVATION

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the variation of vine growth-development and fruit quality characteristics of 'Hayward' and 'Matua' kiwifruit cultivars at different altitude in Ardesen district of Rize (Turkey) province during two growing seasons in 2013-14. Significant differences in phenological dates of kiwifruit cultivars, cultivated at different altitudes were observed in both years. Generally, the kiwifruit cultivars, grown at 20 m altitude sprouted 7 days early and dropped their leaves 9-10 days later when compared to the cultivars, grown at 610 m altitude. Besides, the vegetative growth of vines was normal at all altitudes and the annual shoot diameter and length decreased with increase in altitude. With increase in altitude, the leaf area, number of leaf, bud, flower, and fruit on shoot decreased in both kiwifruit cultivars. The lowest values for leaf area, number of leaf, bud, flower, and fruit on shoot were detected in vines grown at 610 m altitude and the highest means were reached in vines grown at 20 and 210 m altitudes. The width, length index, weight, firmness, TS S, pH of fruit and yield values of 'Hayward' cultivar decreased with increase in altitude. The highest values were recorded from orchard at 20 and 210 m altitude. Acidity and firmness of fruit increased with increase in altitude and the highest acidity and firmness was taken from 610 m altitude. Effect of altitude was found non-significant for vitamin C content in both years. The results suggested that the cultivars at various altitudes were performed better but the new commercial cultivations of 'Hayward' and 'Matua' kiwifruit cultivars must be made in areas with up to 210 m altitude.