THE STUDY OF SOME APPLE GENOTYPES WITH RESISTANCE TO DISEASES CANDIDATE FOR OBTAINING NEW VARIETIES

Abstract

The researches performed at Voineşti Research and Development Station for Fruit Growing in the apple breeding program for obtaining varieties with resistance to diseases highlights the biological characteristics of some existing genotypes in the competition microculture established in 2019. In the 11 apple genotypes taken in the study, compared to the 'Florina' variety taken as a reference, it is analysed the evolution of the flowering phenophases, the period of fruit ripening and storage, as well as the quality determined by biomass, dry matter content and firmness of the pulp during 2022-2024. Some of the apple genotypes in the competition microculture meet the requirements imposed for the approval of new varieties with resistance to diseases, which can meet the market requirements and the expansion in modern orchards from the established orchards. From the recording of the flowering phenophases, it is noted that they are advanced by about two weeks in the year 2024, compared to the years 2022 - 2023, due to the increase in temperatures in March, against a background of sufficient moisture, being a signal for the study of phenology in the face of climate change. The apple genotypes with disease resistance present fruits intended for fresh consumption, most with winter ripening, with a compact, consistent firmness and an appreciable dry matter content, characteristics that promote them for the approval of new varieties. Three of the apple genotypes were registered for homologation, one becoming the 'George' variety, being appropriate to the demands of the producer, sensitive to economic efficiency, with quality fruits, which will certainly meet the ever-increasing consumer demands.