Vol. 69 No: 5

Title:
Phenological Cycling of Non-Astringent Persimmon in Subtropical Australia

Authors:
A.P. GEORGE, R.J. COLLINS and T.S. RASMUSSEN

pp: 937-946

Abstract:
The phenological cycle was established for ‘Fuyu’, the most important non-astringent persimmon cultivar grown in subtropical Australia. The chosen environment was different from that in more traditional production regions such as Japan in that it received only 350 effective chill units. Seasonal changes in growth patterns of fruits, shoots and roots and variations in starch and nutrients levels were evaluated. Termination of endodormancy occurred about 40 d in advance of vegetative budbreak. Trees produced a single vegetative growth flush in late spring and two root flushes in mid-late summer. Fruit exhibited a normal sigmoidal growth pattern. Starch reserves were greatest in the roots followed by the trunk and shoots. Reserves dropped to their lowest levels during budbreak and reached their peak at leaf fall. Leaf analysis showed that N, P and K concentrations decreased through the season, while Ca and Mg increased. These studies provide a basis for the correct timing of key management practices such as fertilizing, thinning and irrigation.

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