Postharvest nitrogen application effect on ovule longevity of ‘cornice’ pear trees

Abstract Low fruit set and cropping are common characteristics of ‘Cornice’ pear (Pyrus communis L.) trees in spite of a high bloom density. An experiment was conducted to study the effect of late season nitrogen (N) application on ovule longevity of this cultivar. Mature trees were given a single foliar application of 0% (control), 5%, or 10% (w/v) aqueous urea immediately after harvest. Ovule senescence was detected by fluorescence microscopy. Ovule longevity was extended and fruit set was increased by fall urea. Flower density and fruit fresh weight were not affected.

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