Influence of chemical pruning agent in inhibiting axillary bud growth of tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv. 'Goiano')

Abstract

An experiment to verify the possibility in reducing manual bud pruning in tobacco (Nicoticma tabacum L.) by controlling axilary buds with an inhibitor of axillary bud growth was conducted, Butralin, at 1, 2 and 3% of commercial product, using 20 ml per plant, applied just after removing the principal inflorescence on upper stem end was used. The results have showed that all concentrations of butralin promoved inhibition of axillary sprout meristem developments, without affecting leaf growth. The concentration of 2% of commercial product gave the highest leaf dry matter and the lowest axillary sprout dry matter weight.