THE EFFECT OF GIBBERELLIC ACID (GA₃) CONCENTRATION IN FRUIT SPRAY APPLICATIONS ON THE QUALITY AND YIELD OF “KRISTAL” GUAVA (Psidium guajava L.)

Abstract

Fluctuations in the production of “Kristal” guava (Psidium guajava L.) have highlighted the need for solutions to improve fruit quality and productivity through the application of plant growth regulators. This study aimed to determine the effect of GA₃ concentration on the physical and chemical quality of crystal guava and to identify the optimal GA₃ concentration. The method used was a single-factor randomized block design (RBD) consisting of five GA₃ concentration levels, namely 0 ppm, 75 ppm, 100 ppm, 125 ppm, and 150 ppm, applied by fruit spray. The results of this study indicate that the application of 75 ppm GA₃ significantly increased total soluble solids, with the highest value of 12.94 °Brix. The application of GA₃ at concentrations of 75, 100, 125, and 150 ppm was able to increase the proportion of fruit maturity, as indicated by a change in fruit skin color from light green to yellowish green. This study concludes that a GA₃ concentration of 75 ppm is the optimal concentration for improving the chemical quality of crystal guava fruit.