Effects of 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic Acid, Gibberellic Acid and Potassium Nitrate on the Development of Tangelo Orlando (Citrus×tangelo) in the Sudano-Sahelian Area in Mali

In Mali, citrus fruits play an important part in both human nutrition and the country's economy. They represent an important source of income for citrus growers. Citrus production in Mali is highly diversified, but the current trend is towards the Tangelo Orlando or Citrus×tangelo variety. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of two phytohormones (2,4,5-T acid and AG3) and a mineral salt (KNO3) on the production of Tangelo Orlando. The experiment was carried out in Koulikoro district, especially on the experimental plot of the IPR/IFRA of Katibougou. The plant material used was white-pulp Tangelo Orlando. Two phytophytohormones (2,4,5-T acid, and AG3), a mineral salt (KNO3) and distilled water (control) were used to treat the young plants. The experimental design was a Fischer block with three replications. Observations were made on the parameters of development. The results showed significant differences (p<1%) between different development parameters. Both phytophytohormones significantly influenced early induction of flowering. The number of fruits per plant increased with the application of AG3. The weight and diameter of the fruits improved with the application of phytophytohormones and mineral salt. The best yields were obtained with the application of the two phytophytohormones (27,685 kg/ha with 2,4,5-T acid and 25,835 kg/ha with AG3). These yields are higher than the national average for Mali. In the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Mali, citrus growers can use these 2,4,5-T acid and AG3 phytophytohormones in their orchards to induce early flowering and ripening in order to improve the yields of young Tangelo Orlando plants.