Relationships between Fruit Growth Dynamics and Leaf Physiological and Fruit Color Characteristics in Jujube

This study investigated fruit growth dynamics in two different sizes of jujube and their relationships with leaf traits physiological and color characteristics. Fruit and leaf measurements were taken in five different periods between July and September. The large-fruited genotype showed a significant advantage in fruit size compared to the small-fruited type. Chlorophyll content and leaf area were consistently higher in the large-fruited genotype and increased throughout development. Fruit peel color a* values in large-fruited jujube gradually increased, showing a progressive transition from green to red, while a more abrupt reddening was observed in small-fruited jujubes. Correlation analysis identified strong positive relationships between fruit weight, fruit diameter, fruit length, chlorophyll content, leaf area, and fruit peel a* values, defining them as key indicators for fruit size and ripening.