Evaluation of red currant cultivars’ technological effectiveness for mechanized harvesting

Articles in Press
Author
Olga Panfilova
Russian Research Institute of Fruit Crop Breeding(VNIISPK)
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the optimal red currant cultivars for mechanized harvesting by evaluating the bush's morphological structure and the berries' mechanical parameters. Fourteen red currant cultivars were assessed during the 2021-2022 season, and their berry quality indicators and mechanical parameters, including separation force (Fs) and crushing force (Fc), were measured. The results showed that the cultivar plays an important role on the bush's morphological structure, while the berries' mechanical parameters impact the efficiency of harvesting process. The high correlation between Fs and Fc allowed for predicting the optimal harvesting periods of the cultivars. Among the cultivars, 'Rolan', 'Jonkheer Van Tets', 'Rovada', 'Red Lake', 'Asya', 'Vika', and 'Niva' were considered as technological cultivars and suitable for mechanized harvesting. This study emphasizes the importance of considering genetic and morphological factors when selecting red currant cultivars for mechanized harvesting and provides valuable insights for breeding and developing new cultivars adapted to mechanized harvesting.

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Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 September 2025