TIMING APPLICATION OF HYDROGEN CYANAMIDE (DORMEX) TO PEACH TREES USING A MODIFIED CHILLING MODEL

Abstract

This multifaceted study was conducted over the past 6 years in Alabama to determine the efficacy of using hydrogen cyanamide to replace lack of chilling in peaches and to develop a working chilling model to allow proper timing of application. Several timings (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% chilling accumulation) for each chilling level and rates (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% v/v of 50% hydrogen cyanamide) were evaluated in commercial orchards using replicated studies. It was determined that for Dormex to be effective, 60% to 65% of chilling for the cultivar involved must be accumulated, accompanied by no bud activity beyond bud swell. Rates of 0.5% and 1% v/v of 50% work well with the latter preferred. A computer chilling model was developed to assist growers with proper timing of application.