Plant Growth Regulator For California Now Registered For Almonds

Valent U.S.A. Corporation announced Thursday the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) registration of ReTain Plant Growth Regulator for California on almonds. ReTain increases nut-set in almonds to help ensure an optimum crop load.

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ReTain extends the viability of almond blooms by giving more opportunity for pollination of the flowers, which improves nut-set potential. The naturally occurring active ingredient in ReTain works by reducing ethylene production in almond flowers and delaying flower and stigmatic senescence. This effect results in longer flower viability, which allows more time for pollination to occur. Field studies have demonstrated that ReTain extends the life of an almond bloom by 43% over the untreated check.

“Keeping the almond bloom viable for longer is important for pollination — especially if wind, cloudy days or rain interferes with bees foraging,” said Kevin Forney, Valent product development manager. “By keeping the flower alive longer, ReTain helps ensure the success of a grower’s hive investment.”

Commercial trials on more than 30 California sites from 2014 to 2016 have demonstrated that almond trees treated with ReTain consistently displayed increased nut-set and yield on the almond varieties tested. On average, the 2014 to 2016 trials on nonpareil-variety almonds increased yield by 185 pounds of nutmeat per acre over the untreated check — a 7% increase.

“ReTain is a proven technology with established, similar use patterns for fruit- and-nut set in California cherries and walnuts,” said Tom Caruso, ReTain product manager for Valent. “Now, ReTain offers an innovative, new use for increasing nut-set in California almonds to ultimately provide growers with an enhanced crop load.”

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ReTain can be applied between 10% and full bloom; however, the recommended application timing is between 30% to 60% bloom. ReTain offers an easy-to-use rate of one water-soluble pouch per acre. It is best applied via air blast sprayer to maximize the application window.

 

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