Find out what the research conducted by UF/IFAS says about summer gibberellic acid applications for Florida citrus.
“In recent years, many citrus growers in Florida have begun using gibberellic acid (GA) to enhance tree growth and productivity,” shared a UF/IFAS Tip of the Week article. It added, “Initially, the recommendation was to apply GA monthly from September to January for Valencia oranges to maintain canopy health, reduce fruit drop and improve yields.” Some growers, however, did not want to apply GA so late, “due to concerns about the greener peel color, which can affect the appeal of fresh fruit even though GA does not impact internal quality.” So UF/IFAS started research on summer gibberellic acid applications; see the results below.
The Benefits of Summer Gibberellic Acid Applications
Researchers have been conducting field trials for two years into the benefits of summer gibberellic acid applications; results, according to the article, include:
- “Both Hamlin and Valencia oranges showed that trees receiving three or more GA sprays exhibited better fruit retention and lower preharvest fruit drop compared to untreated trees.”
- “While untreated trees experienced a decline in canopy density, those treated with GA maintained a more stable canopy, with better results for trees receiving more applications.”
- Treated trees retained their canopy even after Hurricane Milton.
- “Yield improved by 30% with a higher number of GA applications.”
- “In terms of fruit quality, internal traits such as Brix, acidity percentage and pounds of solids per box were not significantly affected by the number of GA sprays in either Hamlin or Valencia oranges.”
- “Peel integrity improved, indicated by lower electrolyte leakage, even though the color development of treated fruit was slightly delayed. It is important to note that applying GA three to five times resulted in a greener peel color.”
Takeaway: The article shared the conclusion that “early and repeated GA applications can be a valuable strategy for growers managing groves affected by HLB (citrus greening disease). A minimum of three applications, spaced 45 days apart starting in July, can promote canopy health and reduce fruit loss without compromising the internal fruit quality.”
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions -or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.