Seasonal growth and characteristics of fruits developed from delayed flowers of 'Fuyu' persimmon

Growth and characteristics of the fruits developed from “delayed flowers” (DFs) of 'Fuyu' persimmon (Diospyros kaki) were investigated to determine their usefulness to supplement the frost-damaged normal flowers (NFs). In hand-pollinated trees without frost damage, DFs bloomed on June 6 and June 5 in 2012 and 2013, respectively, 13 and 11 days later compared with NFs. DF fruit diameters were 5.8-9.4 mm less than the NF fruits on July 16 in both years, but the difference became 1.5-2.4 mm on August 27. Such a difference persisted until harvest on November 12. DF fruits at harvest weighed 6.6-7.3% less compared with NF fruits, an insignificant reduction. Skin color, firmness, and soluble solids of fruits were not different between both DF and NF. In trees with insufficient NFs due to spring-frost, DF bloomed 10 days later than NF. DF decreased fruit drop under open pollination but produced more deformed fruits. DF fruits, containing more seeds, were not significantly lower in size, skin color, and soluble solids. It was concluded that DFs could yield marketable fruits with no delay in maturity although their size is slightly smaller.