Flower bud density, flower bud drop and fruit set were studied for nine apricot cultivars in order to understand the influence of these variables on apricot biology and productivity. Cultivars in southern Spain were chosen as representatives of different flowering times and productivity. Results indicate differences among cultivars in the studied parameters. Low flower bud production, high flower bud drop and low fruit set were often recorded in mid- to late flowering cultivars. These traits subsequently led to poor yields. Early blooming varieties, which are frequently good producers, generally showed the highest flower bud density, medium flower bud drop and high percentage of fruit set. The influence of the cultivar was more determinant than the seasonal effect on fruit yield. This information should be useful to breeders for choosing the best parents for productivity.

The authors wish to thank to Fundación Séneca (Murcia-Spain) for financially assisting N. Alburquerque. This research was supported by CICYT grant AGL2001-1122-C02-01.

10 pages, 4 tables, 3 figures

Peer reviewed