PACLOBUTRAZOL EFFECT ON DEVELOPMENT OF GREENHOUSE-GROWN BANANA: A 2-YEAR ASSESSMENT

Paclobutrazol (PP333) effects on the growth and yield of 'Grande Naine' banana was examined during the first 2 production cycles. Foliar application of PP333 at 1 g active ingredient (a.i) per plant was compared with soil application. PP333 was also used for soil amendment at rates of 0.0, 0.5, and 1.0 g a.i./plant. Plant vegetative growth was significantly reduced by both modes of application of PP333 during the first growth cycle but only to soil application had a residual effect and checked growth during the second cycle. High PP333 concentrations produced stunted plants and decreased to leaf area significantly more than did the low rates during both cycles. Leaf chlorophyll content was higher in PP333-treated plants, with higher values for higher treatment concentrations. Mode of application had no effect during the first cycle but foliar application did not differ from the control plants during the second cycle of growth. PP333 reduced yield when plants were treated young, with residual affect when treatment was applied for soil amendment.