Sir Arcel Ex 5

Department of Horticulture
College of Agriculture and Food Science

Visayas State University
Visca, Baybay City, Leyte
Name: Mark Joshua Z. German Offering Number: Q101

Lab Instructor: Arcel M. Montes
Exercise No. 5
Flower Induction in Fruit Trees
Introduction
The blooming stage signifies a crucial shift from a plant's growth-focused
phase to its reproductive stage, signifying a crucial step in the creation of a new plant
generation. Typically, the timing of this flowering phase is controlled by either internal
factors or external environmental conditions. In various subtropical and tropical tree
species such as mango, lychee, macadamia, avocado, and orange, lower
temperatures act as the trigger for initiating flower growth. These specific trees
necessitate temperatures between 15°C to 20°C, significantly surpassing the
temperature requirements for vernalization observed in non-woody plants.
In the realm of fruit production, perennial fruit trees often exhibit a pattern of
alternating between productive and unproductive years, a phenomenon referred to
as alternate bearing (Monselise and Goldschmidt, 1982). Alternate bearing causes
disruptions in the regular fruit yield, impacting the global fruit industry economically.
This inconsistency in fruit availability adds to the instability of fruit prices in the
market. A strategy to address this problem involves controlling the flowering and
flower induction in fruit crops. This approach enables the production of fruits during
off-seasons, aiming to create a more balanced and stable equilibrium between fruit
supply and demand.
Objectives
1. To be familiar with the process of flower induction in fruit crops.

2. To quantify the effect of flower induction in calamansi
Methodology
The lab report session occurs at the VSU Pomology Nursery Area, located
near the Lower Campus in proximity to the Main Gate. Students are examining the
calamansi tree specifically marked for the experiment that involves applying Urea
through spraying. However, due to the prevailing weather conditions, only a limited
number of students are presently engaged in the foliar spraying process on the
calamansi tree. Other students have been scheduled to monitor and assess the
effects of the fertilizer application after a week. To ensure the safety and well-being
of the fruit tree, the instructor has provided detailed guidance to students on the
correct method of applying the fertilizer on the leaves, emphasizing the significance
of avoiding spraying during windy conditions. Additionally, during this session,
students have addressed the designated lab inquiries provided for the experiment.
Results and Discussion
Figure 1. After a week of foliar application
The figure shows that after a week of foliar application in which the Calamansi
plant started to flower. After thorough evaluation, from picking a plant without flowers
to monitoring everyday and to lastly evaluate whether the treatment is successful.
With the right environmental condition that favors our non-flowering Calamansi tree
to flower thus includes the weather, soil fertility, temperature, water stress and etc. In
addition, in the laboratory lecture class wherein it was discussed that Urea is known
to be a leaf penetrant thus foliar application as a method is the best way to induce
flowering to our test plant. According to (Pearl Lemon Team, n.d.), Calamansi plant
requires fertilization every two to three months. Once every four months, apply
approximately 2 to 3 1/2 ounces of 16-20-0 fertilizer mixed with urea to the plant’s
foliage. When the Calamansi tree is two years old, increase the quantity to around 7
to 10 1/2 ounces every four months until the tree is entirely mature. Therefore,
having foliar application to our treatment plant the Calamansi is just the right thing to
do hence successfully flowered within the week of experiment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming familiar with the process of flower induction in fruit

crops is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it enables growers to optimize
fruit production and maximize yields. Understanding the factors and mechanisms
that influence flower induction allows growers to manipulate these variables to
enhance flowering and subsequent fruit set. Also, knowing the process of flower
induction helps in managing flowering in fruit crops, especially in cases where certain
varieties or cultivars have specific requirements for flowering. By understanding the
environmental cues and hormonal triggers that induce or inhibit flowering, growers
can provide the optimal conditions necessary for flower induction.
Quantifying the effect of flower induction in calamansi (Citrus microcarpa)
involves assessing various parameters related to flowering, such as the number of
flowers, flowering time, and overall plant health. Here is the general guide in how you
can approach this: Define object, experimental design, treatment methods, data
collection, plant health assessment, quantitative measurements, statistical analysis,
repeat experiments, consider environmental factors, documentation and literature
review. By following these steps, you can systematically quantify the effects of flower
induction in calamansi, providing valuable information for both scientific
understanding and practical applications in agriculture.
Guide Questions:
1. Why is artificial flower induction advantageous in fruit production?

 Artificial flower induction offers several advantages in fruit production. Firstly, it
allows for control over the timing and quantity of fruit set, leading to increased
yield and improved fruit quality. By artificially inducing flowers, growers can
ensure that fruits develop during optimal periods, maximizing their size and
quality. Additionally, this technique can help overcome pollination limitations,
particularly in situations where natural pollinators are scarce or ineffective. This
is especially beneficial for self-incompatible plants that require cross-pollination
to produce fruit. Furthermore, artificial flower induction can facilitate seedless
fruit production, which is desirable for some markets. This is achieved by
inducing parthenocarpy, a phenomenon where fruits develop without fertilization.
Overall, artificial flower induction offers a valuable tool for fruit growers, allowing
them to optimize production and meet specific market demands.
2. How will off-season fruit production impact the current market status for seasonal
fruits?
 The off-season production of calamansi has the potential to significantly impact
the current market status of the seasonal fruit, with both positive and negative
consequences. Potential positive impacts include increased availability, an
expanded market, and improved farmer income, while potential negative impacts
include lower prices, market saturation, quality concerns, and environmental
impacts. The overall impact of off-season calamansi production on the current
market status will depend on several factors, including the scale of production,
the efficiency of distribution channels, and the effectiveness of marketing
strategies. Additionally, policies and regulations that promote fair pricing and
sustainable production practices can play a significant role in mitigating potential
negative impacts and ensuring the long-term success of off-season calamansi
production
References
Monselise, S. and E. Goldschmidt. 1982. Alternate bearing in fruit trees. Hort. Rev. 4: 128–
173.
Pearl Lemon Team. (n.d.). PLANT JUDO. How to Plant Philippines Calamansi Seeds.
https://plantjudo.com/blog/how-to-plant-calamansi-seeds-philippines/

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Sir Arcel Ex 5

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Department of Horticulture

College of Agriculture and Food Science

Name: Mark Joshua Z. German Offering Number: Q101

1. To be familiar with the process of flower induction in fruit crops.

Results and Discussion

Figure 1. After a week of foliar application

In conclusion, becoming familiar with the process of flower induction in fruit

1. Why is artificial flower induction advantageous in fruit production?

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