Seasonal changes in auxin content and its role in flowering of mango (Mangifera indica L.).
Jogdande N. D., Choudhari K. G.
Author Affiliation: Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri - 413 722, India.
Orissa Journal of Horticulture 29 : 10-12
Abstract : In the present investigation, 2 plants each of mango cultivars Alphonso (on- and off-year), Pairy (off-year) and Neelum were studied for flushing pattern and hormonal content in Rahuri, Maharashtra, India during 1995-97. Observations were recorded from January 1996 until the next flowering season. Alphonso produced 3 vegetative flushes (January, March and September), Pairy 2 vegetative flushes (January and March) and Neelum 5 vegetative flushes (January, March, May, September and November). When comparing total activity of auxin-like substances at different growth stages, irrespective of Rf values, Alphonso off-year showed the highest activity at sampling days 0, 120 and 180, Pairy at day 60 and Neelum at day 240, respectively. The activity increased as shoot development advanced and the higher starch reserve, total carbohydrates and higher C:N ratio in the shoots favoured flower bud initiation in mango. The results showed that high levels of auxins are necessary for flower bud differentiation in mango and that manipulation by sprays of synthetic substances at appropriate intervals may be helpful to induce flowering during the off-season.