Varietal and rootstock effects on mandarin quality

Abstract

The quality of Early Imperial, Emperor, Dancy and Ellendale mandarins on six different rootstocks (Symons sweet orange, Cleopatra and Emperor mandarin, trifoliate orange and Carrizo and Troyer citrange) were studied at the middle of their commercial seasons in early May, June, July and August respectively. These cultivars differed significantly in their qualities, which were also affected by rootstocks and seasonal variation. The citrange rootstocks gave the largest juice volume, but the lowest acidity, ascorbic acid and carotenoid content, while Emperor mandarin rootstocks had opposite effects. Differences due to cultivar and rootstock alone were greater than those attributable to their interactions, which were significant only for 'Brix, Brix : acid ratio, ascorbic acid and carotenoids. Seasonal differences, particularly in Brix: acid and pigment levels might be attributed to the cooler weather in the second season. On a quality, yield and productivity basis it seems that Symons sweet orange and Emperor mandarins are the most suitable rootstocks for mandarins under Mildura conditions.