2019 ASHS Annual Conference

Blackberry is becoming the fourth most important berry after strawberry, blueberry, and red raspberry. This fruit has been always a favorite native fruit in the Southern states of U.S. Thirteen Arkansas released blackberry selections including established cultivars (Rubus sp.) including APF 27, APF 41, APF 46 (primocane cultivars), APF 46, A1937, A2195, A2215, A2241, A2315, Chickasaw, Kiowa, Navaho, Ouachita, and Prima Jan (floricane cultivars), were selected to evaluate for physicochemical properties. These cultivars which have originated from the interbreeding of genetically heterogeneous variable species, have superior disease resistance, fruit production and quality. pH ranged from 3.35 to 3.68. Titratable acids (TA) and total soluble solids (TSS) varied between 4.20 to 8.88 (%) and 3.88 to 6.44 (%) respectively. Total soluble solids/titratable acids ratio was calculated (TSS/TA) as maturity index (MI). The highest MI was measured in APF 46 with the value of 1.55. The lowest value of MI was also measured in Prima Jan cultivar (0.47). Cultivar selection plays a crucial role in fruit production, consumer demand, food and nutrition security, and subsequently in human health. Results of this study will assist producers in selecting the best varieties in order to satisfy consumer’s preferences.