Performance of exotic apple varieties grafted on M9T337 clonal rootstock under high density plantation

Average number of flowers/cluster was found highest in ‘Fuji Zehn Aztec’ (5.92) and average number of fruits/cluster was recorded in ‘Golden Clone B’ (3.24). Fruit to leaf ratio was found maximum in ‘Golden Clone B’ (34.65) and lowest in ‘Super Chief Sandidge’ (25.28). Fruit set (%) and Fruit retention (%) was observed maximum in variety ‘Golden Clone B’ (85.09% and 48.49% respectively). Highest yield and yield efficiency was observed highest in ‘Golden Clone B’ (4.95 kg/tree and 1.42 kg/cm² respectively). As per the maturity ‘Gala Red Lum’ may be categorized as early, ‘Super Chief Sandidge’ as mid-season and ‘Fuji Zhen Aztec’ and ‘Golden Clone B’ found late. The overall results indicate that the introduced apple varieties are characterized with different biological and quality polymorphism. All of the studied varieties show positive characteristics and can be recommended for further evaluation and mass multiplication.