Phenological observations are some of the most sensitive data for the identification of plant species growth in regional climate conditions.Thus, an experiment was conducted from October 2008 to December 2009 to characterize the phenological stages, fruit set and fruit yield of Princesa apples grown under a semiarid climate in northeasternBrazil. Phenological data (stages) were determined in the orchard by daily observations from bud breaking until fruit ripening. The following variables were evaluated: i) fruit set, which is the relation between the number of flowers and the number of fruits (%); ii) the number of fruit per plant; iii) the fruit production per plant (kg); and iv) the fruit yield (t ha-1). Under semiarid conditions, the phenological cycle of Princesa apples is completed in 123 days and thatit is possible to obtain apple yield under semiarid conditions with the pollinator cultivar. Furthermore, additional studies and more evaluation years are necessary to generate an apple production system that is reliable under semiarid conditions.
Malus domestica; climatic conditions; phenology; cold hours requirement
