Effects of Persistent Woody Laterals on Bud Performance of Thompson Seedless Fruiting Canes

¹ University of California Kearney Agricultural Center, 9240 S. Riverbend Ave., Parlier, CA 93648
² University of California Cooperative Extension, 2604 Ventura Ave., Room 100, Santa Rosa, CA 95403-2894.

Nodes which had borne persistent, woody lateral shoots (WLN) or lateral canes were compared to nodes without persistent lateral shoots in Thompson Seedless fruiting canes over two years of study. The WLN produced a higher percent bud break, more shoots and clusters, and a higher level of fruitfulness on individual shoots. In one year, clusters borne on WLN were heavier due to more berries per cluster. WLN were more prevalent in the center portion of the canes, nodes 5 to 9. The implications of this WLN distribution influencing Thompson Seedless cane fruitfulness patterns are discussed. WLN presence should also influence pruning recommendations.

Key words: Thompson Seedless, fruiting canes, lateral shoots, lateral canes

Submitted on May 31, 1988