Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): In mango for obtaining good flowering one must stop irrigation at least 2-3 months before the flowering period.
Reason (R): Water stress is not a mechanism encouraging the formation of mango flowering but it does affect vegetative growth.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.

Hint:

In tropical regions where cool temperatures do not occur, a dry period (water stress) is the primary trigger used by growers to induce uniform mango flowering.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Floral induction in mango (Mangifera indica) is regulated by environmental cues and cultural practices, particularly temperature and water availability, which influence vegetative shoot flushes.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion (A) is correct: Suspending irrigation 2 to 3 months prior to the flowering season is a standard horticultural practice. This induces a temporary dry period, halting active vegetative growth.
- Reason (R) is incorrect: Water stress is a key physiological trigger that encourages floral bud differentiation in mango. By stopping vegetative flushes, water stress allows carbohydrates (starch) to accumulate in the shoots and promotes changes in plant hormones (e.g., reduction in gibberellins, increase in abscisic acid) that initiate flowering.
Thus, Assertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The combination matches Option (C).