Sour passion fruit hybrids with a low photoperiod and temperature requirement for genetic improvement in higher-latitude regions

Abstract Sour Passion Fruit ( Passiflora edulis Sims) breeding programs search for genotypes with photoperiod insensitivity that can develop cultivars better adapted for higher-latitude regions by increasing the harvest period. This work aimed to characterize flowering and fruiting in sour passion fruit hybrids based on low photoperiod and temperature requirements. The hybrids were obtained by crossing plants with normal photoperiod and temperature requirements and inbred lines with a low photoperiod and temperature requirement. The hybrid plants and cultivars were evaluated on a weekly basis by counting the flowers and fruits on each plant. The collected data were then examined via descriptive statistical analysis. Hybrid plants showed flowers throughout the experimental period during the winter season, from May to August, with reduced photoperiods and temperatures. Nonetheless, the sour passion fruit cultivars had indiscernible flowering and fruiting traits during this winter period. This study identified sour passion fruit hybrids that produced flowers and fruits under low photoperiod and temperature conditions.