Growth, yield and fruit quality of 'African Rose' plum as affected by three rootstocks

Rootstock selection is a key determinant of stone fruit orchard management, directly influencing tree vigor, productivity, and fruit quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Japanese plum cultivar 'African Rose' (Prunus salicina Lindl.) grafted onto three rootstocks- Mariana 2624, Myrobalan 29 C, and Nemaguard under Mediterranean conditions over two growing seasons (2024 and 2025). There were significant differences among the rootstocks for all measures of vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality. Among the rootstocks, Nemaguard produced the most vigorous growth, with longer shoots, larger leaves, more fruits per tree, and the highest total yield. Fruits produced on Nemaguard rootstock also exhibited the largest diameter, the greatest firmness, and the highest anthocyanin and vitamin C contents. Myrobalan 29 C exhibited intermediate vigor but produced fruit with the highest soluble solids content, indicative of superior sweetness. Conversely, Mariana 2624 showed reduced vegetative growth and yielded the least fruit but had higher leaf nitrogen content and moderate fruit quality. These results indicate that Nemaguard is the most appropriate rootstock for maximizing yield and fruit size, whereas Myrobalan 29 C is preferable when fruit sweetness is the priority. This study provides growers with evidence-based guidance for rootstock selection aligned with their production goals and orchard management practices under Mediterranean conditions.