Despite the high efficiency of some chemicals on budbreak induction of temperate fruit trees, the high toxicity showed by these compounds is one of the main problems related to its use. Preliminary results indicated that Erger®, an organic nitrogen compound, combined with calcium nitrate, has similar effect to hydrogen cyanamide, with the advantage of being less dangerous to the environment. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of Erger® and calcium nitrate as budbreak promoter in apple trees. The experiment was carried out in Caçador/SC, in 2007, where was done the application of different budbreak promoters in 'Imperial Gala' and 'Fuji Suprema' apples. The budbreak promoters tested were Erger® 3% + calcium nitrate 3%, Erger® 5% + calcium nitrate 5%, Erger® 7% + calcium nitrate 7%, mineral oil 3.2% + 0.34% hydrogen cyanamide and control (without application). It was evaluated occurrence dates of early, full and end blooming stages, budbreak of axillary and terminal buds, axillary budbreak uniformity and fruit set. The budbreak promoters increased significantly axillary and terminal budbreak, and it increased the budbreak uniformity and the blooming overlap of 'Imperial Gala' and 'Fuji Suprema' apples. Because of negative effects on fruit set of 'Imperial Gala' apples, it is indicated Erger® and calcium nitrate application at concentrations below 7%.
Malus domestica; budbreak induction; blooming overlap; fruit set
