Studies on Plant Growth Regulators for Characterization of Quantitative and Qualitative Traits in Guava (Psidium Guajava L.)

Abstract

The study titled "Studies on Plant Growth Regulators for Characterization of Quantitative and Qualitative Traits in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)" was conducted at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, over two years (2022-23 and 2023-24). It aimed to evaluate the impact of various plant growth regulators (PGRs) on the growth, yield, and quality of guava. Quantitative traits analyzed included the number of flowers per tree, fruit setting percentage, fruit yield per tree and per hectare, and fruit size (diameter and weight). Qualitative traits such as seediness, pulp weight, sugar content, ascorbic acid content, and shelf life were also studied. Results indicated that PGRs significantly enhanced guava productivity and quality. The most effective treatment was a combination of Nitrob-enzene 1500 ppm + Triacontanol 200 ppm + Brassinosteroid 150 ppm (T12), which consistently outperformed other treatments. This combination increased fruit yield, with 43.97 kg/tree in 2022-23 and 45.50 kg/tree in 2023-24, and improved pulp weight (120.94 g), reduced seediness (150.52), and enhanced sugar content (total sugars of 10.55%). Additionally, T12 extended the shelf life of guava fruits to around 10 days and boosted ascorbic acid content to 173.16 mg/100g. In contrast, the control treatment (T1) showed significantly lower yield and poorer fruit quality. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of PGRs, particularly the T12 treatment, in improving guava's commercial value, making it a promising strategy for enhancing guava cultivation and productivity