Influence of rootstock and microsprinkler fertigation on photosynthesis, tree growth characteristics, mineral partitioning, and fruit quality in 'fuji' apple

'Fuji' apple [Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill. var. domestica (Borkh.) Mansf.] has become one of the most important cultivars around the world during the last decade. The objectives of this dissertation were to study influence of rootstock and microsprinkler fertigation on photosynthesis, tree growth and spur characteristics, and nutrient partitioning and the relationship between these parameters with fruit size, color, or yield of 'BC-2 Fuji' apple trees.;Current terminal shoots (CTS) leaves of trees on Ottawa 3 had relatively higher net photosynthesis (Pn) than those on other rootstocks in July and August of 1998, and on all sampling dates in 1999. CTS leaves of trees receiving 22.4 kg N/ha had significantly lower Pn on all sampling dates of 1998 and in June of 1999. Also, developing spur leaves on trees receiving 22.4 kg N/ha had significantly lower Pn than those with 156.9 kg N/ha on all sampling dates of 1998.;Trees on M.7 EMLA had larger trunk cross-sectional area (TCA) and longer limb and CTS than those on other rootstocks. Trees on Bud.9 had the smallest TCA and the shortest limb and CTS among trees on all rootstocks. The density of developing spurs in the scion trees increased with the vigor of rootstocks. Bud break in the mixed-bud of trees on of M.7 EMLA was slower than those on Bud.9, M.9, and Ottawa 3 in both years.;Trees on Bud.9 had significantly lower K and higher calcium (Ca) in the current shoot and developing spur leaves, and had higher fruit Ca than those on other rootstocks in both years. Current shoot and developing spur leaves and fruit tissues of trees on M.7 EMLA had significantly higher K concentrations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).