The agricultural sector has seen significant advancements in the cultivation of grapes, with the introduction of plant growth regulators (PGRs) that have revolutionized grape production. These substances, which mimic natural plant hormones, have been instrumental in increasing the size and yield of grapes. This article delves into the history, application, and safety concerns associated with these growth enhancers, particularly in the context of Chinese grape production.
Plant growth regulators, also known as exogenous hormones, are either chemically synthesized pesticides or biological pesticides derived from microbial fermentation. These substances correspond to naturally occurring plant endogenous hormones, or plant hormones, which are present in only minute quantities within plants and are impractical to extract for use. Therefore, artificial products have been developed to serve as exogenous hormones in agricultural production.
The use of gibberellic acid, a key plant growth regulator, began in the Xinjiang region of China in 1964 to enhance the size of seedless grapes. This biological preparation is obtained through the fermentation of specific microorganisms and is a natural product of their metabolism. Gibberellins, a group of plant cell growth hormones, include over 120 varieties found in nature, with gibberellic acid being the first to be applied and the most widely utilized.
In grape production, gibberellic acid is typically used one to two times on young fruit (0-18 days after flowering), with concentrations ranging from 25-100mg/L. The common method of application involves dipping the grape panicle into a prepared solution for a brief moment. Due to its biological nature and structural similarity to endogenous gibberellic acid in plants, it is considered very safe for human consumption and is widely used across Europe, America, Japan, and China.
Forchlorfenuron, a synthetic chemical belonging to the phenylurea class, acts similarly to cytokinin, a plant hormone. It was first registered for use on fruit crops in Japan in the 1980s and has shown to have a significant impact on increasing berry size and promoting fruit-bearing in grapes. This substance is also widely used in other horticultural crops such as melons, cucumbers, and gourds. The typical concentration used is much lower than that of gibberellic acid, usually between 1 to 10mg/L.
While gibberellic acid's safety is universally recognized due to its biological nature, Forchlorfenuron, as a chemically synthesized plant regulator, has raised concerns regarding its safety. Incidents such as the "watermelon explosion" have led to misunderstandings about its use. However, it is important to note that Japan, known for its stringent safety standards, continues to register and use Forchlorfenuron for grapes and other crops, contrary to claims by some "experts" that its use has been discontinued.
The integration of plant growth regulators like gibberellic acid and Forchlorfenuron into grape production has been a significant step forward in modern agricultural science and technology. These agents have enabled growers to enhance the size and yield of their crops, contributing to the industry's growth and efficiency. As with any agricultural innovation, ensuring the safety of these substances remains a top priority, with ongoing research and regulation necessary to maintain consumer confidence and well-being.
For more detailed information on the use of plant growth regulators in agriculture, visit the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Agricultural Research Service.
Please note that the original source provided (cospcn.com) could not be verified for updated statistics and data, and therefore, more authoritative sources have been referenced where possible.
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