Rootstock-related improved performance of ‘Pera’ sweet orange under rainfed conditions of Northeast Brazil

Abstract Citrus orchards in the coastal tablelands of Northeast Brazil are almost exclusively composed of ‘Pera CNPMF D-6’ sweet orange, henceforth ‘Pera’, grafted on ‘Rangpur’ lime. Therefore, assessing new rootstocks for ‘Pera’ in this region is pivotal for diversification purposes, potentially leading to increased competitiveness, yield and fruit quality. In this study, vegetative growth, productive performance, pest attack and fruit quality of ‘Pera’, grafted on five rootstocks, were assessed over 10 years in Northeast Brazil. The trifoliate hybrid HTR-051 conferred the highest yield efficiency to ‘Pera’, while ‘Red Rough’ lemon and LVK x LCR - 010 induced precocity, with yields exceeding 9400 kg ha−1 in the first harvest, as well as the highest cumulative yields. ‘Red Rough’ lemon, LVK x LCR - 010 and HTR-051 were notable for imparting high weight and total soluble solids to ‘Pera’ fruit. Regarding pests, the highest densities of citrus rust mite Phyllocoptruta oleivora were found on the fruit of ‘Pera’ grafted on LVK x LCR - 010, despite low densities of this arthropod over the sampling period. Altogether, our results highlight ‘Red Rough’ lemon and LVK x LCR −010 as superior rootstocks for excelling in productive performance and fruit quality. In addition, HTR-051 manifests as an excellent option for high-density orchards because it induces dwarfism and high production efficiency.