Developmental Fate of Lateral Buds and the Regulating Effect of GA on Flowering in 'Kinnow' Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco)

摘要

Initial stages of vegetative shoot and inflorescence development are described for ' Kinnow' mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco). Microscopic and macroscopic bud break occurred late in December and February, respectively. To regulate flowering, branches were sprayed with different concentrations of Gibberellin (GA3)at successive developmental stages, ranging from resting buds to those producing floral organs. GA3 application significantly reduced the total number of flowers, with a peak of sensitivity at the presumed time of flower induction (late fall) , but no significant difference with the control was noticed at bud break or later. All GA3 concentrations were found to be effective on flower reduction. GA3 treatment not only suppressed formation of flowers, but retarded their development, as compared to the control.