Genetic interactions of pillar (columnar), compact, and dwarf peach tree genotypes

A study was conducted to determine genetic control of the columnar or pillar (PI) growth habit, and to evaluate the effects of interactions of various genes that influence peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch (Peach Group)] growth habit. The PI habit (brbr) examined in this study was inherited as a monogenic trait expressing incomplete dominance. The heterozygous Brbr derived from crosses between standard (ST) and PI genotypes wasrecognized as an upright (UP) tree with narrower branch angles than ST trees but wider than PI trees. The combination of brbr and brachytic dwarf (DW) (dwdw) produced dwarf-pillar (DWPI) trees. The effects of the heterozygous Brbr in combination with dw and/or compact (CT) (Ct) could not be recognized by visual observation. Compact pillar (CTPI) trees resulted from the expression of Ct_ brbr. These trees were distinguished from globe-shaped (GL) trees (Ct_Brbr) by the more upright growth habit of the CTPI trees. This genetic study highlights the genetic “plasticity” of tree growth habit in peach. The investigation of novel growth habits extends our concept of the peach tree. Some growth habits such as PI may have commercial potential for high-density peach production systems. Others, such as PIDW and CTPI may have potential as ornamentals.