Influence of branch angles on branch diameter and fruit expansion of apricot

Abstract

Branch radial growth was register maximum in 60° angle, whereas 90° angle resulted minimum growth. Cultivar Gilgit Sweet had the maximum radial growth (40.02 mm), least growth (20.11 mm) and (17.23 mm) was recorded in Australian at 60° and 90° branch angle respectively, however, Roundel showed minimum growth at 30° angle. Progressive trend in branch radial growth was registered irrespective of angles and cultivars from May to September. At 60° angle, Gilgit Sweet showed highest radial growth (42.25 cm), whereas Conian Italy least at same angle. Cultivar Conian Italy showed least radial expansion, in all the branch angles. Cultivar Kaisha showed the maximum fruit diameter and Charmagz minimum irrespective of branch angles. At 30° branch angle, the greatest fruit expansion (27.46 mm) was noted. In combined effect of cultivar and branch angle, Kaisha had the maximum fruit expansion at 30°, 60° and 90° branch angles.