Studies on the fruit thinning effect of N.A.A. and some carbamates on Jonathan and Delicious apples

Abstract

In a series of experiments in Victoria a single spray of the fungicide thiram applied shortly after full bloom reduced fruit density highly significantly on Jonathan and Delicious apples, but resulted in insufficient thinning. The fungicide Dithane M-45 caused mild thinning and the fungicide Dikar had no effect on fruit set when applied during post-bloom period on Jonathan apples. Applications of the insecticide carbamult applied 16, 23 and 32 days after full bloom reduced fruit density highly significantly and to about the extent as N.A.A. applied 16 days after full bloom on Jonathan apples. Carbamult caused the same degree of thinning irrespective of time of application. N.A.A. and carbamult resulted in adequate fruit thinning.