EFFECTS OF RINGING BRANCHES ON FRUIT SIZE AND MATURITY OF PEACH AND NECTARINE CULTIVARS

Ringing branches at pit hardening resulted in larger fruits and enhanc ed fruit colouring of peaches and nectarines. Because both together de termine the time of harvest, fruit from ringed trees were picked earli er. Further, ringing resulted in advanced fruit ripening compare with controls. Results obtained were similar to those reported for girdling . Ringing is easier and quicker than girdling and represents a useful technique to improve fruit quality.