Vol. 113 (2000): Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society
Citrus

Effects of gibberellic acid on ripening and rind puffing in 'Sunburst' mandarin

L. Pozo
University of Florida
front cover of vol 113, 2000

Published 2000-12-01

Keywords

  • ga[sub3],
  • puffing,
  • harvest

Abstract

Foliar sprays of gibberellic acid (GA[sub3]) were used to control puffing of 'Sunburst' mandarin and to delay the harvest season under central Florida conditions. The application of 25 mg·L[sup-] GA[sub3] to trees of 'Sunburst' mandarin prior to color break, 6-8 weeks before the normal harvest season, delayed color change in the flavedo and prevented peel puffing. Peel thickness and weight were reduced and fruit firmness was higher in GA[sub3]- treated fruits. The treatment also retarded the loss of juice in mature fruits. Based on these results, the harvest season could be extended from November-December into early January. GA[sub3] application reduced the frequency of both plugging and small fissures around the calyx. No significant effects on internal quality were found as a result of the GA[sub3] application.