Exploring within-tree architectural development of two apple tree cultivars over 6 years.

ABSTRACT: The present study addresses the prediction of apple tree development, taking into account both the number and within-tree position of tree components. The architectural development of two trees per scion cultivar, 'Fuji' and 'Braeburn', was studied by describing all shoots over 6 years. Flowering and fruiting were observed over 3 years. The description included different scales [entire trees, axes, growth units (GUs) and metamers], and the analysis compared all axes of the trees as a function of their branching order and age. Three main aspects of vegetative development were investigated: the quantity of primary growth; the number and nature of developing axillary shoots; and meristem death. Results confirm the existence of within-tree morphological gradients, and show that the decrease in

SUBMITTER: Costes E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4240355 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature