The effect of trunk scoring on fruit set, fruit size and shoot growth in non-astringent persimmon

Abstract

The non-astringent persimmon (Diospyros kaki) 'Fuyu' is grown in sub-tropical and temperate Australia. Excessive tree growth reduces fruit set and fruit size and increases the cost of canopy management. The effect of scoring using a three-bladed tool on the performance of mature 'Fuyu' trees growing in Queensland was investigated over two years. The trunks of the trees were scored about 10 cm above the graft union at different times between bud break and fruit harvest. Scoring reduced shoot extension compared with the rate observed in the control. Scoring during bud break and early fruit set gave the best reduction of shoot growth and also improved fruit size. There was no effect on fruit set but fruit size was increased in all scoring treatments. Scoring appears to be an effective practice to reduce tree growth and increase fruit size in 'Fuyu'.