Firsts approaches in the development of phenological models and zonification for walnut (Juglans regia) production in Argentina

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In the last decades, walnut consumption has increased worldwide thanks to their nutritional properties1. Following this trend, walnut cultivated area has expanded in Argentina (mainly in Catamarca, Mendoza and La Rioja) reaching 18235 ha in 20212. The expansion of walnut production in Argentina has reached areas with little or no previous experience, specially in the highdensity orchards. Walnut quality is determined by nut and kernel size, kernel color, oil content, and kernel-to-nut weight ratio (KNR). These features depend on the variety, but environmental conditions, management and their interactions play a key role3. Temperature is the main driver of plant phenology and determines the occurrence of reproductive stages that impact on production. As temperature increases are expected in Argentina4, walnut production and quality may be threatened in the future. OBJECTIVE: To assess fruit quality in walnut orchards, covering a latitudinal-altitudinal gradient along western Argentina.