The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of timing hydrogen cyanamide (HC) applied in low tunnels and open field, on blueberry yield and development. The experiment consisted of hydrogen cyanamide application three times (06/29/12, 07/09/12, 07/19/12, 07/30/12) and two cultivation systems (low tunnel and open field), and additional treatment or control (without HC). The experimental design was a randomized block design with three replications, and the cultivar used was Powderblue. The variables analyzed were: beginning of flowering, budding percentage, branch length, leaf dry weight, chlorophyll content, yield, average fruit weight, fruit diameter and soluble solids. The application of HC in 06/29 and 07/09 anticipated flowering and production. Already budding was anticipated when the HC was applied in 07/09/12 and 07/19/12. Regarding cultivation systems observed that the tunnel low anticipated the flowering and increased yield. We conclude that the application of hydrogen cyanamide, in late June/early July, accelerate the onset of flowering, budding and production as well as use the low tunnel which anticipates the flowering and increases yield.
Vaccinium spp.; hydrogen cyanamide; cultivation system; low tunnel
