Improvement Generative Growth of Coffea arabica L. Using Plant Growth Regulators and Pruning

Abstract

Pruning coffee plants is intended to stimulate generative growth that increases productivity to reach optimal. Plant Growth Regulator (PGR) makes it possible to exploit the production potential of plants. Pruning management, combined with the PGR in coffee plants, is expected to improve flowering and berry growth. The research was conducted for 7 mo from October 2017 to April 2018 at Gunung Gede, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia. A split–plot design with two treatment factors was used in this research. Pruning was placed as the main plot consisting of two levels, namely without (P0) and with pruning (P1). The PGR application was placed as a subplot, consisting of three dosages, namely without PGR (Z0), and concentrations of 0.3 mL L–1 (Z1) and 0.4 mL L–1 (Z2). The results showed, the pruning treatment significantly influenced microclimate, number of branches, B0, B1 and B2, number of berry sets, and berries. Pruning treatment had a very significant effect on microclimate, plant height, number of branches, number of coffee fruits, yields crops–1, and productivity. Interaction both significantly affected plant height and B0. The best dosage had not yet been found.