EVALUATION OF SERBIAN PLUM CULTIVARS UNDER THE AGRO-ECOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF THE TROYAN MOUNTAIN REGION

Background. The biological and economic qualities (including morphological, biochemical and sensory properties) of Serbian plum cultivars are of interest for fruit production in the European Union countries. Studying their agro-biological and pomological properties can assist farmers in making informed choices. The research aims to characterise the Serbian plum cultivars ‘Čačanska Rana’, ‘Čačanska Lepotica’, ‘Čačanska Najbolja’, ‘Čačanska Rodna’ and ‘Valjevka’, as well as the local cultivar ‘Kyustendilska’. ‘Stanley’ was included as a control, and the study focuses on both biological and economic qualities under the agro-ecological conditions of the Troyan Mountain region. Material and methods. The study was conducted in an experimental plantation of the Research Institute of Mountain Stockbreeding and Agriculture (RIMSA), Troyan (42°53′N 24°43′E, altitude 420 m) from 2020 to 2022. Reproductive, biochemical and colour parameters were analysed. Results. The study established that the cultivars ‘Čačanska Rana’ and ‘Čačanska Najbolja’ produced the largest fruits, weighing 46–48 g, with relatively large stones, comprising 4–4.5% of the fruit's weight. The fruit skin of all cultivars was characterised by a dark blue colour with shades of purple, blue, and dark blue. Among the cultivars, the ‘Stanley’ had the hardest skin, while ‘Čačanska Najbolja’ had the softest. Similarly, the fruit flesh was the firmest in ‘Stanley’ and ‘Čačanska Lepotica’. Yields depended entirely on changes in climatic conditions by year. The cultivar ‘Čačanska Rodna’ is noted for its high content of soluble solids, polyphenols and anthocyanins, as well as a relatively high sugar content and a low acidity. These attributes make it suitable both for fresh consumption and processing. The cultivar ‘Čačanska Najbolja’ is characterised by high sugar and acid content along with very low levels of soluble solids. Its taste is described as well-balanced and very pleasant. Conclusion. All studied cultivars are well-suited for cultivation under the conditions of the Troyan Mountain region. They produce large, flavourful fruits with a rich biochemical composition and are highly recommended for inclusion in plum growers’ assortment. © (2024), (Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Przyrodniczego w Poznaniu). All rights reserved.