DCPTA INEFFECTIVE AS A PRODUCTION AID ON FIELD-GROWN TOMATO AND PEPPER

Application of DCPTA, as a seed treatment and a foliar spray, was eval uated for effects on productivity and fruit quality of processing toma to (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and fresh-market pepper (Capsicum a nnuum L.). Two field trials for each crop were conducted in California during 1992. No DCPTA treatment was effective in increasing vegetativ e growth or fresh fruit yield of either crop at any site. Total solubl e solids concentration and color of tomato fruits were unaffected by D CPTA, regardless of application method, We conclude that DCPTA is not a useful production aid for field-grown tomato or pepper. Chemical nam e used: 2-(3,4-dichlorophenoxy) triethylamine (DCPTA).