TECHNIQUES TO IMPROVE LOQUAT FRUIT SIZE

In loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.), NAA thins fruit efficiently. The response depends on the concentration applied, on the date of treatment and on the chemical formula. Applications of 20 mg L^-1 of NAA potassium salt applied when 2–3 fruits per panicle were visible reduced the number of fruits per panicle by 20–45%, and increased the average fruit diameter at harvest by 5.0 to 6.5%. Scoring branches or 20 mg L^-1 of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyproprionic acid (2,4-DP) applied at the onset of cell enlargement stage increased fruit size by 10%, increased the distribution of commercially acceptable diameters, and advanced harvest date.