'Segundo,' 'Byrongold' and 'Rubysweet' Plums and BY69-1637P Plumcot—Fruits for the Southeastern United States

Abstract

Since 1984, the USDA plum breeding program at Byron, GA has released 3 plums and a plumcot adapted to the humid southeastern United States. ‘Segundo’ is an early “green plum” type, ripening in early June. It is suitable for local use. It turns from yellow-green to red as it ripens and has yellow flesh. ‘Byrongold’ is a firm, yellow shipping plum ripening in mid-late June. ‘Rubysweet’ also ripens in mid-late June but has blood-red flesh with a golden-bronze skin. All these plums have very good tree health relative to older varieties. ‘Segundo’ is somewhat smaller, not quite as firm, and higher in acidity, soluble solids and total sugars than ‘Rubysweet’ and ‘Byrongold.’ ‘Rubysweet’ was rated highest by the sensory panel on the hedonic like-dislike scale, followed by ‘Segundo’ and ‘Byrongold.’ A plumcot breeding line, BY69-1637P, has also been released. This selection Sreduces light-medium crops of tart, orange-fleshed fruit. The black skin has a very short fuzz. It was released for use in further breeding.