Yield Component Analysis in the Cranberry1

Yield component analysis was used to study the components of yield diversity in cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). The proportion of uprights flowering and fruit-set were identified as important contributors to yield diversity. Numbers of uprights, flowers per flowering upright, and fruit-size were less important. Isolated yield components were largely influenced by uncontrolled variation. However, component compensation effects were identified. Fruit-set compensated for uprights/dm 2 in several areas. Fruit-size compensated for uprights/dm 2 and fruit-set for flower number in only one area. Fruit-set and fruit-size were positively correlated in two cases. The numerical techniques employed have positively identified promising areas for further research.