Question:

Which of the following factor is NOT favourable for induction of staminate flowers in Watermelon?

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To increase female flowers and yield in cucurbits, apply Ethrel (ethylene), whereas to increase male flowers, apply Gibberellic Acid ($\text{GA}_3$) or silver nitrate ($\text{AgNO}_3$).
  • Excessive nitrogen application
  • High temperature condition
  • Long day length
  • Application of ethrel@150 ppm
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation



Step 1: Understanding the Concept:

Sex expression in cucurbitaceous crops like watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is highly plastic and is regulated by environmental conditions, nutritional status, and endogenous plant hormones.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The factors influencing sex expression are:
- Excessive nitrogen application (A): Promotes vigorous vegetative growth and tends to increase the proportion of staminate (male) flowers in some environmental regimes.
- High temperature (B) and Long day length (C): These are the classic environmental conditions that promote maleness (staminate flower development) in cucurbits.
- Application of Ethrel (D): Ethrel releases ethylene, which is a powerful feminizing agent in cucurbits. Applying Ethrel at 150 ppm suppresses male (staminate) flowers and induces the development of female (pistillate) flowers. Therefore, it is not favorable for the induction of staminate flowers.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Application of ethrel@150 ppm is not favorable for staminate flower induction.
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