Delaying bloom in horticultural crops using jasmonic acid biosynthesis inhibitors

Abstract

Peach production in temperate regions is often threatened by spring frost during late winter or early spring. Currently, effective methods to mitigate frost damage are largely lacking. Plant growth regulators (PGR) to enhance cold hardiness or to delay budburst and bloom date until the risk of frost damage has passed or diminished are considered to hold high potential in ameliorating frost damage due to their high efficiency, relatively low cost, and ease of implementation. However, proper PGRs that can delay bloom effectively and safely are yet to be identified. Disclosed herein is a method for delaying flowering of deciduous fruit trees that involves applying to the tree an effective amount of a jasmonate inhibitor, such as diethyldithiocarbamate (DIECA).

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