Effect of Ethephon on Flowering Induction of Bromeliad (Tillandsia cyanea)

Abstract

Currently, to produce Bromeliad commercially, ethephon is widely used to stimulate flowering, however, the chemical's effects may vary depending on its concentration and method of use. The use of high concentrations of ethephon can inhibit the growth and development of inflorescences. However, different Bromeliad species can respond differently to ethephon. The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate concentration and application method of ethephon for inducing flower buds and inflorescence size of T. cyanea. The study was conducted using a (4x2) 10 Factorial in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 2 factors. Factor 1 had 4 levels of ethephon concentration: 0 (control), 100, 200, and 300 milligrams per liter mixed with urea fertilizer (46-0-0) 15 grams per liter. Factor 2 included two methods of application: foliar spray and instillation. A total of 8 treatments, 10 plants per treatment, totaling 80 plants, were given 20 milliliters of substance per plant, 2 times, with the second application being 1 week away from the first time. The results showed that T. cyanea responded to all concentrations of ethephon. Flower buds appeared after 8-9 weeks (59.33-72 days) on plants that received 100 milligrams of ethephon per liter. The fastest flower buds were formed by instillation on the shoots, which took 59.33 days. The control group that did not receive ethephon did not form flower buds. Although the concentration of ethephon and the method of application had no effect on the length and width of the inflorescence, the findings of this study can be applied to effectively induce flowering of other types of Bromeliad