Variety traits

Persimmon fruit cracking

Diospyros kaki L. f.

A physiological disorder characterized by the loss of skin integrity at the calyx or the apex of the fruit, caused by water supply imbalances, parthenocarpy, and genetic cultivar characteristics.

In the reference 6 varieties crop Persimmon, where this is mentioned in the description.

Persimmon fruit cracking is classified based on the location of the defect: at the calyx, which is often related to the growth process, and at the apex, which is frequently correlated with seedless fruits. Skin damage reduces the market value of the crop and creates conditions for secondary infection by microorganisms.

Key factors in the development of this pathology include sudden fluctuations in soil moisture, such as heavy irrigation following a drought, as well as genetic predisposition, particularly common in non-astringent cultivars of the PCNA group. Calcium deficiency and the balance of growth regulators affecting epidermis density also play a significant role.

To assess the severity of fruit damage, visual counting or a quantitative method using a methylene blue solution is applied to determine the cracking index. Preventive measures include ensuring cross-pollination for cultivars prone to parthenocarpy and implementing controlled deficit irrigation strategies.

General information about the subject — on the page Fruit cracking.

Sources8

Varieties of Persimmon mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.