Growth, yield, and fruit quality of two non-astringent persimmon (Diospyros kaki) cultivars, Izu and Fuyu, in subtropical Australia

Abstract

Growth, yield, and fruit quality of 2 non- astringent persimmon (Diospyros Inaki) cultivars, Izu and Fuyu, were evaluated under subtropical conditions of coastal Australia. Although maximum tree yields for Izu and Fuyu were high (24 and 37 t/ha, respectively) the percentage of fruit suitable for export was low and variable (range: Izu 8.547%; Fuyu 2844%). Main fruit quality defects were wind rub, petal adherance marks, fruitfly stings, calyx cavity, sunburn, and bird damage. Without fruit thinning, both cultivars were susceptible to overcropping in some seasons, which resulted in a high percentage (>40%) of small fruit (<150 g). Most fruit (80% for Izu and 90% Fuyu) had Brix levels higher than the recommended export standard of 14°.