Pomological characterization of Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) populations. [Doctoral dissertation] | Pomološka karakterizacija prirodnih populacija drena (Cornus mas L.). Doktorska disertacija

In order to inventory the natural populations and secondary provenance of Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) in the regions of Vojvodina and Macva (Serbia) over three years of research (2007 – 2009) hundreds of genotypes were registered. Also, we found a very large variation in flowering time and maturity, morphometric properties of fruits and nutrients content. Based on the results, 66 genotypes were selected for which we showed detailed pomological characterization. Very early flowering genotypes (KMC1 – January 19, KDC6 – 22 January) are characterized in secondary origin, while flowering was latest with genotypes that are located in open spaces (LC group), in forest stands (CE group) or at high altitudes (GC group). The longest flowering period (from 28 January to 26 March) of 48 days was found in genotype BPC8. Based on time of ripening stand out genotypes whose fruits have early (KLC – July 19, KDC1 – July 24, KIC1 – 26 July) or late (KC2 – September 11, Backa – September 7, Yellow – 6 September) stage of full maturity. Grouping of related genotypes on the basis of the traits, what are significant for the further fruit breeding program, was carried out using Cluster analysis, which focuses on the cluster of cultivars with large fruit and high flesh to stone ration. Within this group, all genotypes have a very high flesh to stone ration, but clearly distinct is genotype PPC1 with largest fruit weight (6.64 g) and flesh to stone ratio (88.55%), followed by the genotype R1, with large fruits (4.51 g) and high flesh to stone ratio (87.73%). These genotypes with large fruits and balanced chemical composition can be recommended for fresh use. Based on chemical composition of fruit flesh we identified genotypes suitable for processing to clear juices and concentrates, or fruit puree, depending on the content of examined parameters. The total phenol content and antioxidant activity showed that cornelian cherry has significant antioxidant properties. In order multiplicate selected genotypes vegetative propagation with softwood and hardwood cuttings and grafting was examined. There has been very satisfactory rooting of softwood cuttings in controlled environments, for which biochemical parameters of rooting were examined to. The tested methods of vegetative propagation have shown that the safest propagation method is grafting selected genotypes and selections on two-year old seedlings.