EFFECT OF 4-CPA ON FRUIT SET AND YIELD OF BEEFSTEAK TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM L.) ON THE ISLAND OF ST. CROIX

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important commercial crop for producers in the US Virgin Islands and is grown for fresh market. The declining economy and increased prices of produce in the Virgin Islands have increased interest in more people growing their own food. High temperatures in summer season affect tomato production. The objective of the study was to evaluate 4-Chlorophenoxy acetic acid (4-CPA) on fruit set and yield of tomato cultivars in the US Virgin Islands. Two trials in summer 2012 and 2013 were conducted on beefsteak tomato cultivars ‘Red Deuce’ and ‘Better Boy’ at the University of the Virgin Islands Agriculture Experi¬ment Station. Plants that were treated with 4-CPA resulted in increased fruit set, higher yields and marketable fruits compared to plants that were untreated control in both cultivars. No significant difference in sugar content (brix) and acidity (pH) was observed between treated and untreated (control) plants. Data describing treatment effects on plant growth, marketable fruits, size, yield, brix and acidity are presented in this paper.