CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOLOGICAL TRAITS AND AGRONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF MINI KIWI (Actinidia arguta Planch.) CULTIVARS IN GEORGIA
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Well known, that The current ultimate process of climate change intensifies, the demand for adaptable fruit species has become increasingly urgent. Actinidia arguta (commonly known as mini kiwi or baby kiwi or hardy kiwi) has emerged as a promising candidate due to its notable frost tolerance, smooth, edible skin that enhances consumer appeal, high nutritional value, and strong agro-ecological adaptability. All features combined with growing market interest, position mini kiwi as a quite interesting option for diversifying fruit production in climate-sensitive regions across the world. This study aims was to evaluate the biological and agronomic performance of mini kiwi (Actinidia arguta) 4 introduced cultivars—Weiki, Ken’s Red, Issai, and Jumbo—under Georgian agro-climatic conditions, with the objective of identifying varieties suitable for local cultivation and climate-resilient fruit production in Georgia. Field and laboratory trials were conducted 2019 -2023 years in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia, on the experimental station Jigaura (SRCA) a representative area within the country’s principal fruit-growing zone. The main phenological parameters—including bud break, flowering stages, fruit harvesting amd leaf fall periods—were systematically recorded throughout the study. Comprehensive assessment of pomological traits was carried out, regarding of fruit size, weight, and other organoleptic characteristics, alongside comercial yield components. Additionally, biochemical analyses were performed to quantify total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA) , and vitamin C (ascorbic acids) content , providing an integrated evaluation of fruit quality and pomological characteristics.
Source: GEORGIAN SCIENTISTS
Institution: Academy of Sciences of Moldova
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4415375161