Gibberellin spraying in the production of male flowers of squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) and their postharvest quality

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the effect of spraying gibberellic acid (AG₃) on the production of male flowers, their physical and chemical quality for fresh sale of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.).

Methodology: A crop of pumpkin was established under open air, where two sprays of AG₃ were carried out at doses of 0, 30, 60 and 90 mg L^-1 in the first 45 d after planting. The number of male and female flowers accumulated during 31 d after applying the AG₃ was evaluated, and some physical and chemical characteristics of the quality were determined. A randomized complete block design was used, and four blocks were established.

Results: Proportion of male flowers: female flowers were increased from 2:1 with 0 mg L^-1 until 4:1 with 90 mg L^-1, during the evaluation period. Chlorophylls, carotenoids, phenolics compounds, antioxidant activity and vitamin C, were not affected negatively by the AG₃ spraying.

Limitations on study/implications: This experiment needed to be replicated under different climatic conditions and varieties.

Conclusions: Spraying of AG₃ increased the male flower proportions without affect quality of pumpkin flowers.