Abstract:

Tree nutrient imbalances stimulated by iron (Fe) deficiency in calcareous soils often affect citrus trees grown in the Mediterranean basin. Rootstock choice can help with nutritional imbalances along with abiotic management issues. The present study evaluated the growth and photosynthetic performances of young ‘Interdonato’ trees grafted on ‘Alemow’, ‘Bitters’, ‘Carpenter’, Carrizo’, ‘Furr’, ‘sour orange’, ‘US812’, ‘Volkameriana’ and ‘X639’ grown in calcareous soils in Mediterranean region of Turkey. Plant growth of the scion budded on Alemow, sour orange and Volkameriana was significantly higher than those grafted on other rootstocks. Bitters produced significantly smaller trees than Alemow, sour orange and Volkameriana. In addition, scion grafted on sour orange (0.99) had the highest compatibility. Rootstocks affected leaf chlorophyll concentration and PSII efficiency. L eaves of ‘Interdonato’ budded on Carrizo citrange displayed a significant decrease in photosynthetic rate ( P N ), stomatal conductance and PSII efficiency when compared to other rootstocks evaluated in this study. Young Interdonato trees budded on to Bitters rootstock had significantly higher P N in comparison to Carpenter, Furr and Carrizo citrange in calcareous soil.

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