CURRENT ETHEPHON USE PATTERNS IN WESTERN U.S. PROCESSED TOMATO PRODUCTION

It is estimated that up to 75% of the processed tomato production in the Western U.S. is treated with ethephon.
The primary benefit for growers and processors is the ability to extend or manipulate the harvest schedule.
Also, increases in total recoverable yield are regularly achieved.
Grower experience has led to treatment rate adjustments for variety differences, environmental conditions and processor demand.

For example, the ripening period is effected by ethephon rate and prevailing temperatures.
During periods of high temperatures, which can exceed 38°C in the summer months in Western U.S. production areas, ethephon is commonly used at 0.42 to 0.56 kg/ha 14 to 18 days before harvest.
This lower rate minimizes premature vine senescence and resulting fruit scald.
In late summer and early fall, as daily heat units decline, rates are increased up to 1.8 kg/ha depending on variety sensitivity and processor schedules.

III International Symposium on Processing Tomatoes

David C. Fritz

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1990.277.30