Mango cultivar evaluation at Westfalia Technological Services, South Africa.
Bruwer A. T., Rooyen Z. van
Author Affiliation: Westfalia Technological Services, PO Box 1034, Tzaneen 0850, South Africa.
: 289-293
Abstract : Westfalia Technological Services (WTS) has been involved with the evaluation of mango cultivars since the early 1990's. Over the years, various selections were collected from all over the world and were evaluated under South African growing conditions. The program currently has up to 100 different cultivars and extends over 10 hectares distributed over three geographical areas of South Africa. These cultivars are evaluated for their in-field tree performance (seasonality, productivity) and pre harvest fruit quality (fruit size, appearance, pest and disease susceptibility). After harvest, shipping simulations are conducted to determine the sensitivity of fruit to low temperature storage and the development of physiological disorders. Four of the cultivars have shown commercial potential and have progressed to a pre-commercial testing phase. Plant Breeders' Rights are obtained by WTS for promising plant material and fruit volumes are controlled through the establishment of grower clubs.