Split-Pit of ‘Dixon’ Cling Peaches in Relation to Cultural Factors1

Abstract

Split-pit of ‘Dixon’ cling peaches was correlated with all 3 variables in a multivariable cultural system study involving differential N applications, irrigations, and crop loads. Any factor that enhanced fruit size contributed to increased split-pit. Fruit size at reference date was more important than fruit size at harvest. In different years fruits of the same size at reference date or at harvest did not necessarily have the same amount of split-pit. Fruit set was more important than other factors in determining fruit size at thinning. Crop load after thinning influenced split-pit where fruit set was moderate; however, where fruit set was light split-pit was severe regardless of thinning and where fruit set was heavy split-pit was of minor concern regardless of thinning. Early thinning accomplished about reference date (10 days after beginning of pit hardening in 80% of fruit) increased split-pit over thinning 2 weeks later. Maintenance of high soil moisture (< 40% used) after reference date increased split-pit over that of less frequently irrigated plots. Manipulation of cultural factors cannot satisfactorily control split-pit, but may considerably influence its occurrence.