Effects of early winter gibberellic acid and mineral oil applications on flowering of young non-bearing Clementine (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) and Satsuma (Citrus unshiu Marc.) trees
Date
2001
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Abstract
Gibberellic acid (GA₃) and heavy mineral oil (Bae-oil) treat ments, either individually or in
combination, applied during the flower initiation period in early winter (April to July) were
evalu ated as a means to reduce flowering levels in young non-bear ing citrus trees over four
seasons (five trials). GA₃ and mineral oil, either individually or in combination applied late in
May to late June, markedly reduced flowering. Peak response ib-Gf.J coincided with a significant
reduction in bud sprouting. The winter application of GA₃, specifically, and possibly in combi
nation with mineral oil to inhibit flowering, and enhance early vegetative growth on young trees
may be utilised commer cially. Results from these experime_nts suggest that optimum application
time seems to be during late May to late July. How ever, this time is likely to vary somewhat from
year to year
depending on prevailing climatic condit_ions.
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CITATION: Mudzunga, J., Theron, K. I. & Rabe, E. 2001. Effects of early winter gibberellic acid and mineral oil applications on flowering of young non-bearing Clementine (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) and Satsuma (Citrus unshiu Marc.) trees. South African Journal of Plant and Soil, 18(4).
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Citation
Mudzunga, J., Theron, K. I. & Rabe, E. 2001. Effects of early winter gibberellic acid and mineral oil applications on flowering of young non-bearing Clementine (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) and Satsuma (Citrus unshiu Marc.) trees. South African Journal of Plant and Soil, 18(4).