SATSUMA MANDARINE FRUIT SIZE INCREASED BY 2,4-DP

The butylglycol ester of 2,4-DP increased final fruit size in 'Owari Satsuma' mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marc.). The response magnitude depended on the concentration applied and treatment date. When applied at the end of physiological drop, 50 mg-liter-1 was the most effective treatment for increasing fruit size. Peel density and firmness also were improved. Because no fruit thinning occurred, this auxin seemed to stimulate fruit growth. Chemical name used: 2,4-dichlorophenoxypropionic acid (2,4-DP).