Phenological characteristics of Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) varieties in Kashmir

Abstract

The study was conducted in the Experimental Orchards of Division of Fruit Science, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science & Technology of Kashmir, Srinagar, J&K, carried out over two consecutive years 2017 and 2018. Five varieties were used in the study namely Adam’s Pearmain, Allington Pippin, Baldwin, Baleman’s Cider and Cox’s Orange Pippin. The investigation revealed significant differences in varieties regarding phenological characteristics. The results reveal that Cox’s Orange pippin took maximum number of 22.84 and 27.11 days after reference date (DARD) to reach silver tip and green tip stage, respectively. Whereas, variety Allington Pippin took minimum number of 15.58 and 20.20 DARD to attain silver tip and green tip stage, respectively. Pink bud stage was observed earliest in Baleman’s Cider (28.53 DARD) while latest was recorded in Cox’s Orange pippin (38.97 DARD).