Influence of hydrogen cyanamide on bud sprouting in peach trees (Prunus persica L.) of the Huayco Rojo variety

Abstract

The initial bud burst in deciduous fruit trees, such as peach (Prunus persica L.) Huayco Rojo variety, depends on the accumulation of chilling hours, a climatic factor that regulates their phenological development. In temperate regions with insufficient chilling, such as the district of Asia (Cañete Province), this requirement is often unmet, limiting vegetative and floral growth. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydrogen cyanamide on the bud burst of floral and vegetative buds of peach cv. Huayco Rojo to improve phenological synchronization and crop uniformity. A completely randomized block design (CRBD) was used, with four treatments (0-, 10-, 12.5-, and 15-ml L⁻¹) and three replications. Hydrogen cyanamide was applied foliarly during dormancy, and the percentage of swollen buds at 8 days and developed shoots at 15 days after application were evaluated. Results showed highly significant differences (p < 0.01) among treatments. The 15 ml L⁻¹ treatment achieved the highest means, with 93.33 % swollen buds and 83.33 % bud burst, followed by 12.5 ml L⁻¹ (33.33 %), while the control (0 ml L⁻¹) showed the lowest response (21.67 %). It is concluded that hydrogen cyanamide application induces floral and vegetative bud burst in peach trees grown in areas with insufficient chilling accumulation. Further studies are recommended to determine the optimal dose through regression analysis.