Abstract
Branch orientation and distribution determine tree architecture that can influence orchard design and management. Peach [Prunus persica L. (Batch)] trees with three different branching genotypes were evaluated: fewer, nearly vertical branches (pillar), less vertical and more spreading branches (upright), and more abundant, least vertical branches (standard). Auxin concentrations and expression of genes that regulate branch development in herbaceous species, MAX1, 2, 3, 4 and TAC1 were determined. Shoots and roots of peach trees in the field and greenhouse were studied following pruning and during periods of growth when bud break and branch spatial orientation develop. Expression of MAX3 and MAX4 decreased in stems of field-grown peach trees that remained on the tree following pruning. In the greenhouse elevated auxin concentrations and higher gene expression of MAX3 in roots and MAX4 in stems were found in pillar rather than standard trees. Upright trees had auxin and MAX1–4 expression that was intermediate between pillar and standard trees. Temporal differences were found with MAX1–4 expression being greater in April or May but auxin concentrations were greater only in shoots in May. Expression of TAC1 was inversely related with auxin concentrations in shoots and was greatest in standard and least in pillar trees. The current work indicates that in stems, auxin, MAX3–4 genes, and TAC1 genes may influence regulatory processes that affect growth and development of peach trees with different growth habits. In addition to breeding, new plant growth regulators that affect the modes of action of root-originating signals may provide new cultural tools for managing tree growth and development.
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Acknowledgments
The authors thank Tony Rugh and Larry Crim for their technical assistance. We thank Chris Dardick, Mike Glenn, and Michael Wisniewski for reviews of this report. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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Tworkoski, T., Webb, K. & Callahan, A. Auxin levels and MAX1–4 and TAC1 gene expression in different growth habits of peach. Plant Growth Regul 77, 279–288 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10725-015-0062-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10725-015-0062-x