PHENOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTRODUCED ALMOND(Prunus amygdalus) CULTIVARS IN HERZEGOVINA

The research aims to determine the phenological characteristics of seven introduced almond cultivars (Ferragnes, Ferraduel, Tuono, Genco, Supernova, Texas, Nonpareil), in Herzegovina, in a private plantation located near the settlement of Gnojnice, Mostar municipality. The area of Herzegovina - Mostar is very favorable for intensive almond cultivation. The phenological observations covered two vegetation years (2017-2018). Phenological observations are considered as sensitive methods for recognizing the plant reactions to climate change. The flowering period is a significant characteristic of almonds because it is important to avoid late frosts that affect the production of almonds with early flowering. Based on the study of the phenological phases of almond flowering, it can be concluded that all introduced almond cultivars belong to the group of medium to late flowering, which shows a satisfactory adaptation to the ecological conditions of Herzegovina. There are significant differences in the time of the beginning of ripening of almond cultivars in 2017 and 2018, which is the result of the agro-ecological conditions. Based on the phenological research that referred to the late flowering, the most promising cultivar for the area of Herzegovina is Supernova, and it can be recommended for wider production. In addition to the late flowering phenophases, Supernova is self-fertile cultivar. In the future, it is necessary to continue and intensively research both the introduction and autochthonous genotypes of almonds in Herzegovina for genetic characteristics and breeding programs.