Genetic progress in 53 years of the Peach Breeding Program of Embrapa: Fresh market cultivars

Abstract A peach breeding program started in 1963, at the Experiment Station of Pelotas, nowadays Embrapa Clima Temperado, whose primary aim was developing cultivars adapted to mild winter conditions. Its first priority obtain canning type fruits, and over years, fresh market acquired equal importance. This article analyzes data 84 cultivars, obtained from 1964 2017, focusing on following parameters: time ripening, fruit development period, average mass, number fruits per tree, productivity plant total soluble solids. First, were tabulated, divided into two periods (1964-1984 1985-2017), descriptive statistical analysis performed, followed by an via mixed models estimates genetic progress meta-analysis. The main results revealed a reduced period peaches belonging that program. It also observed significant spread ripening (end September or beginning October until January), with slight tendency for earliness. Genetic gain yield corresponding 1.17 2.25% year, 1964-1984 1985-2017, respectively.