| Iron deficiency is a major problem that affects many fruit crops grown on calcareous soils. A four-year study was conducted to evaluate the effect of calcareous soils on the vegetative growth and productivity of six peach rootstocks (Nemaguard, Atlas, MRS 2/5, Cadaman, GF 677 and GxN15) grafted with 'Ruby Diamond' nectarines. Trees were planted in 100 L containers filled with a sandy loam textured, calcareous soil (6.3% active calcium carbonate) with a pH of 8.0 and an intermediate level of available iron (5 mg kg-1 of Fe+2). The trunk diameter during the 4th growing season was larger in GF 677, GN 15, Cadaman and Atlas, whereas Nemaguard and MRS 2/5 showed smaller average values. Cadaman and Atlas presented the highest pruning weight (a measure of... |
