The Uses and Methods of Applying Forchlorfenuron (CPPU)

Forchlorfenuron, also known as CPPU, is a common plant growth regulator frequently used during crop growth. Below is an introduction to the functions and application methods of CPPU.

Functions of CPPU

1. Accelerates Cell Division: CPPU accelerates mitosis, promoting cell enlargement and differentiation, and enhances the horizontal and vertical growth of plants.

2. Promotes Fruit Enlargement: CPPU can prevent flower and fruit drop, thereby promoting fruit enlargement.

3. Promotes Early Maturity: Using CPPU can promote early maturity of crops and delay leaf senescence.

4. Increases Photosynthesis: CPPU promotes chlorophyll synthesis, enhancing the intensity of photosynthesis in crops.

5. Improves Fruit Set Rate: CPPU promotes the sprouting of lateral buds and the formation of lateral branches, increases the number of branches and flowers, and enhances pollen viability, thus improving the fruit set rate.

Application Methods of CPPU

1. Melons: Use 10-20 ml of 0.1% soluble CPPU solution mixed with 1 kg of water. Dip melon buds or flowers in the solution to regulate growth and promote fruit set.

2. Cucumbers: To solve the problem of "aborted cucumbers" under conditions of low temperature and insufficient light, apply a 20 times diluted 0.1% soluble solution to the cucumber stems one day before or on the day of flowering to increase yield and quality.

3. Watermelons: On the day the female flowers open or the day before or after, spray the fruit with a sprayer or apply a 20-33 times diluted 0.1% soluble solution around the fruit stem.

4. Navel Oranges: About 25-30 days after flowering, spray the tree canopy or apply the solution to the fruit stems using a 50-200 times diluted 0.1% soluble solution.

5. Grapes: About 10-15 days after flowering, dip the young fruits in a 10-100 times diluted 0.1% soluble solution.

6. Kiwi Fruit: About 20-25 days after flowering, dip the young fruits in a 5-10 mg/kg CPPU solution.

7. Mandarins: During the full flowering, fruit setting, and late fruit drop stages, spray the tree canopy once with a 0.5 mg/kg CPPU solution.

8. Tomatoes, Eggplants, and Zucchinis: After the full flowering stage, dip the young fruits in a 5-15 mg/kg CPPU solution.

9. Apples, Citrus, Peaches, Pears, Plums, Lychees, Longans: About 10 days after full bloom, dip the fruit stems in a 5-20 mg/kg CPPU solution and spray the young fruits.

Important Considerations

The above information details the functions and application methods of CPPU. CPPU is widely used in agricultural production and is particularly effective on horticultural crops and fruit trees.

Forchlorfenuron Side Effects

Forchlorfenuron, also known as CPPU, is a plant growth regulator that is commonly used to increase the size and yield of fruits such as grapes, kiwifruit, and melons. While it is effective in promoting growth, there are concerns regarding its potential side effects on both plants and humans. This article explores these side effects in detail.

Side Effects on Plants

Forchlorfenuron can have several side effects on plants, particularly if used improperly or in excessive amounts. These side effects include:

Overgrowth and Structural Weakness

When used in high concentrations, Forchlorfenuron can cause excessive cell division and enlargement, leading to overgrown fruits that may be structurally weak and more prone to splitting or breaking.

• Fruit Splitting: Excessive growth can cause the fruit skin to split, making the fruit more susceptible to diseases and reducing its market value.

• Reduced Storage Life: Overgrown fruits often have a shorter shelf life due to their increased susceptibility to mechanical damage and microbial infections.

Altered Ripening

Forchlorfenuron can interfere with the natural ripening process of fruits, leading to uneven ripening or delayed maturity. This can result in fruits that are less flavorful and have an uneven texture.

• Uneven Ripening: Fruits treated with Forchlorfenuron may ripen unevenly, causing some parts to be overripe while others remain underdeveloped.

• Delayed Maturity: The chemical can delay the natural ripening process, affecting the harvest schedule and marketability of the produce.

Potential Health Risks to Humans

There is limited research on the direct health effects of Forchlorfenuron on humans. However, potential risks may arise from exposure to residues on treated fruits and vegetables.

Exposure Risks

Potential health risks include:

• Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact with Forchlorfenuron can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. It is important to handle the chemical with protective gear.

• Ingestion Risks: Consuming fruits with high levels of Forchlorfenuron residues may pose health risks, although more research is needed to determine the specific effects.

Regulatory Status and Safety Measures

Forchlorfenuron is regulated in many countries to ensure safe usage levels in agriculture. It is essential to adhere to recommended application rates and pre-harvest intervals to minimize residue levels on produce.

• Regulated Usage: Adhering to agricultural guidelines and regulations helps ensure that the chemical is used safely and effectively.

• Proper Washing: Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly can help reduce the risk of ingesting chemical residues.

Environmental Impact

Forchlorfenuron can also have environmental side effects, particularly if it contaminates water sources or affects non-target plant species.

Water Contamination

Runoff from treated fields can carry Forchlorfenuron into nearby water bodies, potentially impacting aquatic life and water quality.

• Aquatic Toxicity: The chemical may be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms if it enters water bodies in significant concentrations.

• Soil Health: Overuse of Forchlorfenuron can affect soil microbial activity and overall soil health.

Conclusion

While Forchlorfenuron is a useful tool in agriculture for enhancing fruit size and yield, it is important to use it responsibly and in accordance with regulations to minimize potential side effects on plants, human health, and the environment. By understanding and mitigating these risks, farmers can safely benefit from this growth regulator while protecting their crops and consumers.