Abstract:
Mango is an important fruit
with nutritional and economic benefits.
However, the impact of varying paclobutrazol
(PBZ) concentrations, soil types, and
production seasons on its quality is less
known in the literature. This study
investigated the effects of varying PBZ
concentrations, soil types, and production
seasons on the quality of Keitt mangoes,
aiming to optimise fruit attributes for both
domestic and export markets. Conducted over
three years in the Eastern Region of Ghana,
this study had a 5×3×3 factorial design, with
5 PBZ concentrations (0, 10, 12.5, 20, and 25
mL), 3 soil types (Agawtaw, Akuse, and
Baraku), and 3 production seasons (major,
minor, and off-season). PBZ application had
a concentration-dependent influence on the
physical attributes of Keitt mango fruit,
particularly fruit size, density, and firmness.
Lower PBZ concentrations (0–12.5 mL)
improved fruit size and total soluble solids
(TSS) content, while higher concentrations
(20–25 mL) reduced these parameters. Soil
fertility played a key role, with fertile soils,
such as Agawtaw, producing larger, heavier
fruit with higher TSS and moisture contents.
Seasonal variations also influenced the
outcomes, with the major season favouring
optimal fruit development due to favourable
climatic conditions. Non-treated trees (0 mL
PBZ) produced the largest and heaviest fruit,
while the 25 mL PBZ treatment increased
fruit firmness and extended the shelf life by
reducing the total titratable acidity. The study
emphasises the need to tailor PBZ
applications to soil fertility and seasonal
factors to achieve the desired fruit quality.
These findings offer valuable insights for
mango growers, promoting sustainable
practices that enhance yield, quality, and
economic viability in Keitt mango production
to meet the growing global demand.
