This study aimed to evaluate plant growth and fruit yield and quality of 'Span Americana' mandarin on different rootstocks, under the climatic conditions of Bebedouro, state of São Paulo. The experimental orchard was planted in 2003 using 6 m x 3 m spacing, and was drip irrigated since 2006. The following rootstocks were studied: the 'Carrizo' and 'Troyer' tetraploid citranges [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck × Poncirus trifoliata]; the trifoliates (P. trifoliata) 'Davis A' and 'Flying Dragon: Catania 2 Volkamer lemon (C. volkameriana Tenn. et Pasq.); HRS 849 [(C. aurantium L. cv. 'Smooth Flat Seville' x P. trifoliata cv. 'Argentina')]; 'Orlando' tangelo (C. reticulata Blanco × C. paradisi Macf.), and 'Cravo"Rangpur' lime (C. limonia Osbeck). Mean cumulative yield, productive efficiency and early-bearing yield were calculated for the 2007-2009 period. Plant size and mean plant growth rate was calculated from the annual variation in canopy volume during 2005 through 2008. Fruit quality was assessed in 2006 and 2007. Under irrigated conditions, the 'Davis A' trifoliate and the HRS 849 induced good horticultural performance to 'Span Americana' mandarin and may be used as alternative rootstocks. For high-density plantings, the rootstocks 'Flying Dragon' trifoliate and the 'Troyer' and 'Carrizo' tetraploid citranges may induce better performance to the trees.
Citrus reticulata; earliness; yield; propagation; quality
