UK apple growers will be able to benefit from a new improved formulation of Regulex® 10 SG, which contains a mixture of gibberellins this season, following the introduction of the formulation to the market last year.
"Regulex is an integral part of the apple growers’ programme, improving fruit finish and reducing russets. It is not just in Coxes that russet control is needed: it is also required on many other apple varieties such as Golden Delicious and Gala. Regulex 10 SG has also been shown to increase fruit size and improve fruit shape, leading to better overall fruit quality and marketability," says Dr. David Stormonth, Technical Manager, Interfarm (UK) Ltd.
Fruit russeting is a physiological disorder in which the outer epidermal layers of tissue become stretched and cracked and so produces corky and unsightly appearance of the fruit. Stress related conditions that interfere with steady growth of developing fruit can induce this condition. With increased focus on fruit quality and visual appeal, russeting is an undesirable characteristic and so growers are increasingly seeking ways of minimising it.
David Stormonth explains how Regulex works. "Regulex normalises the development of the epidermal cells and stimulates uniform build up of the fruit’s cuticle. It also increases cell elasticity, so fewer cracks appear. Treated apples are more resistant against surface tension which can present a problem during periods of rapid growth. Finally it increases the number of fruits in the larger size categories through stimulating cell division and cell elongation."
Dr. Stormonth explains that over many years of field research in fruit growing countries, the new improved formulation of Regulex has proven to be the ideal ratio of the naturally-occurring gibberellins. "The product is manufactured under strict quality standards using state of the art fermentation and formulation technology. The easy to use SG formulation dissolves instantly in water and is formulated for maximum field performance under a wide range of crop conditions. Availability of this new formulation in the UK is a direct benefit arising from Interfarm being an affiliate of Sumitomo Chemical Company."
Regulex 10 SG is available from distributors HL Hutchinson and UAP. It is suitable for both conventional and organic crops.
Containing 10 gms per 100 gms (10% w/w) of a mixture of gibberellins formulated as a water-soluble granule, Regulex 10 SG is plant growth regulator for the reduction of fruit russeting and improving fruit finish in apples. It is applied at a dose rate of 20-40 gms/hectare at 7 day intervals or 25-50 gms/hectare at 10 day intervals in water volumes sufficient to cover the tree. Higher rates should be used when conditions are conducive to russeting occurring, such as cool wet or windy weather. It is applied at the end of petal fall followed by four further sprays at 7 day intervals or three further sprays at 10 day intervals. It is packed in 100 gms pack.
For further comment and information, please contact Dr. David Stormonth, Technical Manager, Interfarm UK Ltd. on 01354 741414 or 07818 036506 (mobile) or via e-mail david.stormonth@interfarm.co.uk
