INTRODUCED PERSIMMON (DIOSPYROS KAKI L.) CULTIVARS: ADAPTATION TO LOCAL CLIMATIC CONDITIONS AND ECONOMICALLY VALUABLE TRAITS

Abstract

Abstract. Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) cultivation in Uzbekistan has expanded significantly over the past decade, with the Surxondaryo, Fergana, and Namangan regions emerging as primary production zones. This study evaluates the adaptation of introduced persimmon cultivars to local climatic conditions and assesses their economically valuable traits based on a review of experimental data from the Surxondaryo Scientific Experimental Station. Six cultivars were examined: Xiakume (standard), Ramashka, Raketa, Gosha Gaki, Zenji-Maru, and Pioneer Uzbekistan. Yield performance ranged from 60.0 kg/tree (Gosha Gaki) to 71.0 kg/tree (Raketa), corresponding to 240–284 c/ha under a 5×5 m planting scheme. Fruit mass varied from 98.2 g (Raketa) to 198.1 g (Ramashka), while Xiakume produced the largest fruit diameter (6.39–6.5 cm). All cultivars demonstrated successful adaptation to Surxondaryo's subtropical climate, with October 21 identified as optimal harvest timing. The study confirms that introduced persimmon cultivars exhibit high productivity and fruit quality under local conditions, with Ramashka and Raketa showing superior yield characteristics and Ramashka demonstrating the highest fruit mass. These findings support the expansion of persimmon cultivation as a commercially viable subtropical crop in Uzbekistan.