Effects of 2-(3-chlorophenoxi) propionic acid (3-CPA) were studied on frui ts of 'Cayenne' (Smooth cayenne) pineapple. The growth regulator was applied over the fruits at doses of 37,5, 75,0, 112,5 ppm and 75,0 ppm + 2% urea, when the upper flowers of the fruits were in the last stage of dehiscence. The treatments wi th 3 -CPA or in mixture with urea, significantly increased fruit weight and reduced crown weight. Fruit weight increased from 20 to 34% in relation to untreated control. The crown length was reduced only at concentrations of 75,0 and 112,5 ppm. The presence of urea did not modify the effect of 3-CPA on fruit size. However, the efficiency of 3-CPA in reducing crown size tended to be smaller in the presence of urea The 3-CPA uniformed and retarded fruit maturation in about 30 days. Any phytotoxic effect of 3 -CPA was not observed on the fruit crowns, with the apllied doses.
growth regulator; 3 -CPA; pineapple