The Influence of Training System on Apple Fruit Quality

A comparison between the two training systems Slender Spindle and Bi-axis was performed on two main cultivars, such as 'Galaxy Evolution' and 'Pink Lady'(R) ('Rosy Glow'). Tree architecture description and fruit position in the canopy were monitored during the fruit maturation and ripening using a software developed to design tree architecture and fruit position on the tree, named PlantToon (R). Fruit were monitored during the growing season using a non-destructive device, the DA-Meter. Finally, fruit were harvested, graded and analyzed for major quality traits. In addition, fruit texture was also assessed employing a novel texture analyzer equipped with an acoustic envelop detector device. Fruit quality was dependent upon cultivar, training system and position in the canopy. Bi-axis Galaxy Evolution fruit showed higher size in the lower level as compared to Spindle ones. Fruit size in 'Pink Lady'(R) ('Rosy Glow') was significantly higher in Spindle as compared to Bi-axis while fruit colour was not affected. Bi-axis 'Galaxy Evolution' fruit showed differences as related to layer level as compared to Slender spindle, while no differences were observed in 'Pink Lady'(R) ('Rosy Glow'). In general, fruit harvested from Bi-axis resulted more homogeneous with regards to Spindle training system.