Scheduling Techniques for the Use of Pentia Plant Growth Regulator

Abstract

A single field study was conducted at the University of Arizona Safford Agricultural Center during the 2004 season to evaluate the utilization of a feedback technique that is based upon plant growth and development to schedule applications of the new plant growth regulator (PGR) from BASF, Pentia. A simple three treatment study was constructed consisting of a control treatment (no Pentia application), a scheduled treatment (application of 16 oz/acre at first bloom regardless of plant growth), and a feedback treatment (applications based upon plant growth and development). Application decisions on the feedback treatment were made using height to node ratios (HNR) as a measure of plant vigor. Treatment applications were made on the scheduled regime on 14 July with a one time 16 oz/acre application. The feedback regime received an application (16 oz/acre) of Pentia five days later on 19 July. An additional application (16 oz/acre) was made on the feedback treatment on 3 August due to continued high HNR levels. Significant differences in plant vigor were observed post application among the three treatments as measured by end of season HNR ratios. Yield results indicated positive lint yield response to Pentia application with both the scheduled and feedback treatment producing statistically higher yields than the control. Differences between the feedback and scheduled treatments were not statistically different however a slight yield increase was observed in the scheduled treatment. The second Pentia application made to the feedback treatment was not necessary. End of season HNR measurements indicate that the additional 16 oz/acre application suppressed growth to below the average baseline for HNR. These results indicate that potential positive response to PGR applications, specifically Pentia, under conditions of high vigor.