EFFICACY OF METAMITRON IN APPLE THINNING IN SERBIA

Area of Science:

• Pomology
• Plant Physiology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Fruit thinning is crucial for intensive apple production to ensure high yields and quality.
• Metamitron, a photosynthesis inhibitor, has shown promise for apple fruit thinning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of metamitron for apple fruit thinning in Serbia.
• To assess the practical application of metamitron under local agroecological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Field experiments conducted on Idared and Golden Delicious apple varieties in 2011-2012.
• Application of metamitron at varying doses and timings, following EPPO guidelines.
• Evaluation of thinning efficacy based on fruit development and yield parameters.

Main Results:

• Metamitron demonstrated good efficacy in thinning apple fruits.
• Optimal metamitron application varied by variety, dose, timing, and fruit load.
• Specific effective strategies were identified for both Idared and Golden Delicious varieties.

Conclusions:

• Metamitron is a viable tool for apple fruit thinning in Serbia.
• Tailored application strategies are necessary for maximizing metamitron's effectiveness.
• Further research could refine application protocols for different conditions.