Fenologia de genótipos de Coffea canephora de diferentes ciclos de maturação

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the phenological development of Coffea canephora genotypes at early, intermediate, and late maturation stages. Three experiments were conducted, focusing on seed quality, phenological development, and leaf characteristics. The study took place at the Experimental Farm of the Capixaba Institute of Research, Technical Assistance, and Rural Extension (INCAPER) in Marilândia in Espírito Santo, Brazil. The first experiment analyzed the seed development of early and late maturation genotypes, aiming to identify maturation progression and physiological quality. The early maturing genotype began germination at 202 days after anthesis (DAA), while the late maturing genotype began at 230 DAA. The optimal harvest point occurred at the cherry maturation stage, with the early genotype reaching maximum physiological quality at 244 DAA and the late genotype at 326 DAA. The second experiment evaluated meteorological data, vegetative and reproductive development of the genotypes. Phenology was recorded from the dormant bud phase to the cherry coffee stage, revealing that all genotypes had a main flowering in September. However, early genotypes had a significant flowering also in July, while the late genotype 143 showed the highest yield. Photoperiod and precipitation were decisive in vegetative growth, with peaks observed in spring and summer. The third experiment assessed leaf development and carbohydrate content. Leaf emission followed a nonlinear logistic model, but with significant differences between genotypes. The genotype 143 exhibited more pronounced leaf growth in the spring, while the others showed greater growth in the summer. Climatic conditions influenced the starch and soluble sugar levels in the leaves, with higher concentrations of reducing sugars during periods of slow growth. It is concluded that the differences between genotypes should be considered when choosing the optimal harvest time, prioritizing the cherry maturation stage. Photoperiod and precipitation are the factors that most affect coffee development, with early-maturing genotypes being more sensitive to climate fluctuations. The study highlights the importance of integrating genetic and climatic factors to optimize coffee production