Effects of TIBA growth regulator on open branching of citrus for mechanical shaking

SUCCESSFUL HARVESTING with mechanical shakers requires a tree with an open-spreading branch structure. A vase-like arrangement of three primary scaffold branches arising from the main trunk at a height of from 24 to 30 inches is ideal. The low, open-centered, spreading canopy thus formed allows fruit to fall to a catching frame with less chance of striking interfering branches.