Vegetative and reproductive yield components of primocane-fruiting red raspberries

Selection criteria to identify primocane-fruiting red raspberry seedlings (Rubus idaeus L.) with high, early yield are desirable in regions with short growing seasons. To identify possible parents contributing these desirable characteristics, 'Hertiage', 'Redwing', and two genotypes from the Minnesota breeding program were subjected to yield component analysis. In all genotypes, yield was determined by canes/meter of row, fruit per node, and fruit weight. Over the 3-year period, 'Hertiage' had the highest yield/meter of row, yield per cane, fruit per cane, and number of fruit per fruiting node among all genotypes. Component compensation was highest for 'Redwing', while MN 652 had the greatest degree of independence among components. In selecting seedlings for early fruiting and high yield, high cane densities and/or large fruit size will be needed