Adaptation of new apricot varieties for our country

The study was carried out on 4 years old 13 new apricot varieties which is grafted on Myrobolan 29 C rootstock, 4x1.5 m planting distance. The trees were pruned as central leader system and cultivated in Çukurova University Pozantı Agriculture Research and Application Center at an altitude 1100m. The aim of the study was to determine the adaptability of new apricot varieties to high altitude regions. Pomological analyzes (Fruit weight, stone weight, flesh firmness, TSS (Total soluble solids) and yield values (kg/tree) were carried out in order to determine the fruit quality criteria. In the study where standard fertilization and irrigation programs were applied. However, the results of phenological observations (bud break, first bloom, full bloom, and harvesting date) were recorded. In addition, the chill accumulation of the research area was determined according to standard and chill unit methods. According to the pomological analysıs result the highest fruit weight and firmness was obtained from Gadycat cultivar (49.10 g - 6.47 kg/cm2). In terms of harvesting date Orange Ruby and Mediabel (28.06.2019) were detected the earliest ripen apricot cultivars, Gadycat and Pincot were harvested in 02.07.2019. There were not detected any problem about chilling requirement of all new apricot varieties. In terms of quality and yield values Gadycat, Mediabel, Orange Ruby and Faralia varieties was found suitable for high altitude areas to apricot growing. Key words: Apricot, Adaptation, Chill Accumulation, High altitude