Training Systems for Cape Gooseberry Production in South of Brazil Cultivated in Latosol

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to measure four Physalis peruviana training system under the Latosol soil and climate conditions in the South Region of Brazil. The trial design was composed by randomized groups, with 4 training systems, which were the free system (witness), espalier system, X system and V system, with 5 plants for each treatment and 3 replications. For the fruit harvest, it was standardized at stage 4. The measurement of the height and the diameter of the main branches, number, diameter and fresh mass of the fruit (without calyx) and estimated productivity (kg ha-1) was made. For the qualitative analysis, the soluble solids content (ºBrix) (SS), titratable acidity (% citric acid) (TA), pH and SS/TA ratio were evaluated. Color attributes of fruit (without calyx), L, a*, b* and angle hue were evaluated as well. The espalier system showed higher productivity and number of fruits. Cape-gooseberry plants growth with the V system had bigger diameter and height on the main branches, as well as bigger mass and diameter of the fruit. The chemical analysis like soluble solids, total titratable acidity, pH, ratio and color attributes of fruit did not differ statistically when undergone to the four training systems.