Breeding and processing of lithuanian cultivars of Actinidia kolomikta ( Maxim. and Rupr.) Maxim. fruits grown in organic conditions

Abstract

In Lithuanian University of Agriculture seedlings of Actinidia kolomikta (MAXIM. & RUPR.) MAXIM, have been selected and investigated since 1972 with the purpose to create the cultivars that are the best for cultivating in Lithuania and countries with similar climatic conditions. In 1996 four cultivars of A. kolomikta Lande, Paukstes Sakarva, Laiba and Lanke were entered in .Lithuanian National List of Plant Varieties". These cultivars are characterized by particular chemical composition, tolerant to the surrounding conditions and low temperature, disease and pest resistant. Twenty years investigation results show that the cultivars differ in their yield quantity and quality. Chemical composition of fruits depends not only on cultivar property, but also on meteorological conditions and cultivation method. The aim of this work was to investigate and evaluate the yield and chemical composition of A. kolomikta fruits, sensory characteristics of processing products. The amount of dry matter, soluble solids, ascorbic acid and soluble sugars was determined. A. kolomikta cultivar Lande produced the highest yield of fruits (16.4 t-ha-'). The highest contents of dry matter (23.95%) and total soluble sugars (4.53%) were determined in fruits of cultivar Laiba. Fruits of cultivar Lande accumulated the highest contents of soluble solids (12.57%). The highest amounts of ascorbic acid were accumulated in fruits of cultivar Paukstes Sakarva -4670 mg-kg"1. The storage period of A. kolomikta fruits is short. Fresh and frozen fruits can be used for drying, jams and wine making. Confectionery stuffing made from A. kolomikta fruits is a good source of ascorbic acid.