Morphological and biochemical responses of blackberry (Rubus spp.) cultivars under agro-climatic conditions of the Samarkand region

Abstract

Introduction. Blackberry (Rubus spp.) is an important berry crop valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. However, there is limited information on the morphological and biochemical responses of different blackberry cultivars under the semi-arid agro-climatic conditions of the Samarkand region. Research on cultivar performance under local conditions is essential for improving cultivation strategies and functional food development.
Aim. To evaluate the morphological characteristics and biochemical composition of thornless and thorny blackberry cultivars grown under the agro-climatic conditions of the Samarkand region.
Materials and Methods. Seven cultivars—Jumbo, Thornfree, Karaka Black, Brzezina, Chester, Cacanska Bestrna, and the thorny Brazos—of composite origin belonging to Rubus spp. were studied during 2022–2024. Physiological and biochemical parameters were analyzed at key phenological stages, including leaf water content, fruit composition, vitamin C, flavonoids, amino acids, and carbohydrate levels.
Results. Leaf water content showed clear diurnal variations. Karaka Black exhibited the highest water retention and better adaptation to arid conditions, while Thornfree and Jumbo were more sensitive to heat and water stress. Significant differences were observed in fruit biochemical composition among the cultivars, including vitamin C, flavonoids, amino acids, and carbohydrates. The thorny Brazos cultivar demonstrated intermediate responses in water retention and biochemical composition. The study identified cultivars with superior adaptation to semi-arid conditions of the Samarkand region.
Conclusion. Karaka Black, Brzezina, Chester, and Brazos cultivars are promising for cultivation in the semi-arid regions of Samarkand and for the development of functional food products. The findings provide a scientific basis for selecting blackberry cultivars adapted to local environmental conditions.

To cite: Jumakulova N.Sh., Kabulova F.D., Ismoilov K.T. Morphological and biochemical responses of blackberry (Rubus spp.) cultivars under agro-climatic conditions of the Samarkand region. Agrarian Bulletin of the North Caucasus. 2026;16(1):82-90. https://doi.org/10.31279/2949-4796-2026-16-1-82-90