Organic Alternative for Breaking Dormancy in Table Grapes Grown in Hot Regions

Abstract

Problem statement: In warm-winter regions, the need for intervention of chemical means to break bud rest becomes a dominant factor for maintaining economic production of table grapes. However, the problem is more acute when farmers want to grow organic table grapes in the absence of environmentally-friendly budbreak promoters. Approach: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a mix of naturally occurring Garlic Compounds (GC) in comparison to the conventional use of hydrogen cyanamide to promote budbreak and its effects on cluster quality in four table grape cultivars field-grown in hot region (Sonora Desert). Results: Four cultivars responded to GC, the vines bursting bud about 3 weeks after application. Quality of fruit from 4 cultivars treated with GC was excellent. Clusters weigh and berry sizes were larger than other treatments. Conclusion: Ability of GC to break dormancy in table grape grown in Sonora Desert has significant implications for organic table grape production in hot regions.