QUALITY AND STORAGE POTENTIAL OF ‘RUBY SEEDLESS’ TABLE GRAPE ESTABLISHED ON EIGHT ROOTSTOCKS

Abstract

The “Comarca Lagunera” region produces table grape (Vitis vinifera L.) for the bational market. Proliferation of certain pests causing serious problems in the plant root, such as phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae Fitch), root knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp) and cotton root rot (Phymatotrichum omnivorum), has compelled growers to introduce resistant rootstocks. In addition to tolerate adverse factors in the soil, rootstocks could influence cluster quality. In this research it the quality and evolution in storage of ‘Ruby Seedless’ table grape established on eight rootstocks: 333 EM, 41 B, SO 4, 5 BB, 99 R, 5 C, 110 R and Dogridge was studied. Variables evaluated were cluster and berry size, berry firmness, berry color, total soluble solids (%), total acidity (%), berry detach (%), rachis necroses and decay (%). Statistical differences were found among rootstocks for most of the evaluated variables. The rootstock inducing the best quality characteristics in ‘Ruby Seedless’ clusters was SO 4 with big clusters and berries, high content of soluble solids, better firmness, resistance to shatter, and low decay, followed by 99 R and 5 BB. The rootstock showing the lowest results was 110 R with small clusters, low firmness and high decay level. Storage reduced firmness and increased acidity, percentage of berry drop, rachis necroses, and decay.