Characterization of hybrid pomegranate genotypes based on sunburn and cracking traits related to maturation time

Abstract

Sunburn and cracking are the most significant physiological problems in the region where pomegranate is grown. These problems cause yield loss of up to 50% in some years. It is known that environmental and genetic factors have an effect on sunburn and cracking on pomegranates. in this study, the resistance of hybrid pomegranate genotypes against sunburn and cracking as well as their maturation time was determined. in addition, the relation between earliness and lateness and resistance against sunburn and cracking was investigated. the study was conducted in Western Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute and 69 pomegranate genotypes were used as material. in the study, the break of wood buds, emergence of first flower buds, first blossoming, maximum blossoming, last blossoming, ripening, yellowing of leaves, and leaves' falling were detected with phenological observation. Moreover, upon harvest, sunburn and cracking ratios of each genotype were determined. Finally, it was found out that late types are more sensitive against sunburn and cracking compared to the types ripening in early and middle season.