Response to severe water stress of the almond (Prunus amygdalus) ’Ferragnès’ grafted on eight rootstocks

The behaviour of almond (Prunus amygdalus) ’Ferragnès’ grafted on eight rootstocks (GF‐677, Stylianidis C., GN‐15, GN‐22, M‐51, 3–7, 3–8, and Drepanoto), as regards certain agronomical and physiological responses, was studied under water stress conditions. From the results it is concluded that scions on GN‐22 were better adapted to water stress conditions as they had higher growth, higher pre‐dawn leaf water potential, and lower leaf shedding. However for some parameters measured, GN‐22 was not significantly different to GN‐15, GF 677, and Drepanoto. A suitable rootstock adapted to water stress may also have the characteristic for high nutrient uptake. Regarding nutrient status, under the specific experimental conditions of water stress and low fertiliser input, scions on Drepanoto maintained most nutrients in leaves in the adequate range (except nitrogen, potassium, and boron) followed by GF 677, 3–8, and M‐51. Furthermore, scions on Drepanoto showed a tendency for higher uptake of manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) and therefore this rootstock is appropriate for soils with low Mn and Zn availability.