Assessment of the water stress effects on peach fruit quality and size using a fruit tree model, QualiTree

Low water availability has increased the use of regulated deficit irrigation strategies in fruit orchards. However, these water restrictions may have implications on fruit growth and quality. The current paper assesses the suitability of an existing fruit tree model (QualiTree) for describing the effects of water stress on peach fruit growth and quality. The model was parameterised and calibrated for a mid-late maturing peach cultivar (‘Catherine’). Mean and variability over time of fruit and vegetative growth were consistent with observed data on trees submitted to full irrigation or to regulated deficit irrigation. The relative root mean square errors of the model for growth ranged between 0.09 and 0.31.