Performance of two mature ‘Pêra’ sweet orange orchards in West Santa catarina, Brazil

Abstract

The sweet orange cultivar 'Pêra' [(Citrus sinensis L.) Osb.] is the most important in Brazil due to its good adaptation in the Southeast region and the quality of its juice. However, it is susceptible to citrus tristeza, a disease that is more severe in cold climates such as subtropical ones. Thus, its cultivation in this region is limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potentiality of 'Pêra Bianchi' orange for cultivation in the Santa Catarina state. Two adult 'Pêra Bianchi' orchards located in the west of the state were evaluated. Plant size, fruit production and its quality (size and juice characteristics) were evaluated during two harvests. 'Pêra Bianchi' orange presented satisfactory yearly productivity, averaging the equivalent to 42 and 45t ha^-1, and its juice quality was adequate to market standards. However, a large portion of the fruit produced is not adequate in size for commercialization as fresh fruit. Regarding fruit productivity and size, there was a substantial variability among plants in the same orchard.