Increasing the crotch angle of young apple trees by using growth hormones or plastic discs

Abstract

In two experiments carried out at the Scoresby Horticultural Research Station, with two growth regulators and plastic discs on maiden apple trees, branch angles were significantly increased. The growth regulators IBA and TIBA, and co-polymer plastic discs were applied at bud burst viz. when laterals were not longer than 5 cm in apple cvv. Jonathan, Granny Smith and Delicious (Hi-Early Sport). The application of growth regulators significantly increased branch angles, irrespective of apple variety or the branch position in the canopy. The plastic discs were more effective than either of the growth regulators.