SATSUMA MANDARINE FRUIT SIZE INCREASED BY 2,4-DP

The butylglycol ester of 2,4-DP increased final fruit size in 'Owari S atsuma' mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marc.). The response magnitude depende d on the concentration applied and treatment date. When applied at the end of physiological drop, 50 mg-liter-1 was the most effective treat ment for increasing fruit size. Peel density and firmness also were im proved. Because no fruit thinning occurred, this auxin seemed to stimu late fruit growth. Chemical name used: 2,4-dichlorophenoxypropionic ac id (2,4-DP).