Effect of Different Forms of Argel (Solennostemma argel Del Hayne) Applications on Flowering, Fruit set and Fruit retention in Vegetatively Malformed ‘Tommy Atkins’ Mango Cultivar

Abstract

Vegetatively malformed mangos are prone to floral malformation. In this study foliar and soil treatments with argel leaves and stems were tested as part of integrated malformation management to elucidate their impact on flowering, fruit set and fruit retention in malformed ‘Tommy Atkins’ mango cultivar. Soil application of ground argel stems and the foliar application of argel leaf water extract enhanced the percentage of flowering branches significantly. Soil dressing with ground argel stems improved the characteristics of the inflorescence. All argel treatments improved fruit set compared to the control, but the best fruit retention was gained from the foliar application of the leaves water extract.