Volume 56 Number 2 Article 17
Year 2002 Month 4
Title: A Development Based Classification for Branch Architecture in Almond
Authors: T.M. Gradziel, D.E. Kester and P. Martinez-Gomez
Abstract:
Branch architecture in seedling almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb (syn. P. amygdalus
Batsch)] trees was characterized by the degree lateral branching in current and previous season growth.
This characterization allowed the rapid classification of the wide range of branching habits observed in
almond germplasm, including backcrosses from interspecic hybrids.
The approach shows promise for
assessing the genetic control of branching habit, developing improved branch architecturer, and evaluating the relationship between juvenile (seedling) and adult (bearing) almond tree architectures.
Progeny distributions demonstrated that targeted and sometimes unique tree architectures could be readily
achieved through appropriate selection of parents.
Branch architectures of interest for cultivar improvement include a lateral-bearing habit on current and previous season shoots having limited branch
size and consistent right-angle orientation to the primary shoot.
The resulting arrangement allows improved crop density without excessive shading of lower fruitwood.
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