New introductions from MAS.PES, an Italian fruit tree breeding program: ‘Dulciva’ nectarine and ‘Pulchra’ peach.

MAS.PES is an apricot and peach breeding program located in northern Italy aimed at the introduction of cultivars featuring enhanced fruit quality and disease resistance for the most important fruit growing areas. Among the most recent releases 'Dulciva' and 'Pulchra' are to be mentioned. 'Dulciva' is a nectarine from a 'Big Top' × 'Ambra' cross, ripening in late August (or first week of September as it is said after), around 40/45 days after 'Big Top'; the tree growth habit is regular and of medium vigour, chilling is medium; fruit shape is round, slightly triangular, with over 70% blush, weighting over 220 g; flesh is melting, slow softening; flavour is very good, of the low acid type with soluble solids around 14°Brix. 'Pulchra' is a very early peach issued from a 'Vista Rich' × 'May Crest' cross, ripening one week before the pollen parent; the trees growth habit is regular and of medium vigour, chilling is medium, fruit shape is perfectly round, but prone to elongated tip in warm environments, with over 90% brilliant blush, weighting around 110 g, flesh is melting, the flavour is balanced and very aromatic. Both are highly productive, with good fruit 'keeping ability' during ripening. 'Dulciva' is meant for widening the harvest window of 'Big Top' nectarine in the very late season for the northern peach growing regions in Italy (between 44N and 46N of latitude), while 'Pulchra' is better suited for environments with mild Springs in order to enhance fruit size.