Evaluation of Two Chokeberry Cultivars According to Fruit Quality Parameters

This study evaluates the growth performance and fruit quality parameters of 'Melrom' and 'Nero' chokeberry cultivars in southeastern Romania. The research monitors phenological stages from early spring bud swelling until full fruit ripening, which occurred in mid-August for both genotypes. Morphological traits and biochemical properties were analyzed to determinethe adaptability of these cultivars to local climatic conditions. The results indicators showed that 'Melrom' obtained a higher initial fruit production, reaching a yield of 157.00 g per plant. Conversely, 'Nero' recorded a lower yield of 138.00 g per plant, but demonstrated larger clusters with more berries per cluster. Regarding processing quality, 'Nero' showed a superior juice yield at pressing (74.00 %), making it highly efficient for liquid extraction. Chemical analysis revealed that 'Melrom' excelled in fruit sweetness, accumulating the highest total soluble solids of 19.97 % Brix. The colorimetric data confirmed distinct visual differences, characterizing 'Nero' with lighter berries and 'Melrom' with darker fruits.