AI Insight
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have demonstrated that the plant growth regulator ethephon can delay flowering in Kordia sweet cherry trees, potentially reducing frost damage as climate change causes earlier blooming periods that coincide with late spring frosts. The treatment showed variety-specific results, successfully delaying flowering in Kordia cherries but not in another cherry variety or two apple varieties tested. This highlights that the effectiveness of such interventions depends heavily on the specific crop cultivar selected.
Why it matters
Earlier flowering due to climate change exposes fruit trees to increased frost damage, threatening crop yields and food security. This research provides a potential tool for fruit growers to protect vulnerable varieties from late spring frosts, though careful cultivar selection is necessary for the treatment to be effective.
Understand the Science
Climate change is causing many fruit trees to flower earlier, increasing their exposure to damaging late spring frosts. A study led by the University of Göttingen shows that the plant growth regulator ethephon can delay flowering in Kordia, a sweet cherry variety, potentially protecting blossoms and developing fruitlets from frost. The treatment did not significantly delay flowering in a second sweet cherry variety or two apple varieties, highlighting the importance of crop and cultivar selection. The results are published in BMC Plant Biology.