Paclobutrazol and Its Use in Fruit Production: A Review

There are documentary records referring to paclobutrazol (PBZ) as a growth bioregulator that inhibits the gibberellin synthesis and its application increases yields in fruit and vegetable crop productions. Its agronomic management includes it as an emerging technology to reduce vigour, promote flower induction and flower development in fruit trees with increased economic returns. Its use is banned in some countries because of concerns about residues that can cause harmful effects on the environment. Therefore, the aim of this article was to collect, analyse and summarise relevant information on the use of PBZ in fruit tree production and its possible risks to the environment. The results obtained indicated that the application of PBZ can be effective in solving some problems related to flowering if it is applied in the right amount and at the right time. However, it is necessary to elucidate the physiological processes with which it is associated and its response to be taken into account to increase yield. PBZ is currently used in fruit trees such as mango, lime, apple and guava, increasing their productivity. However, some studies have shown its residual effect on the environment. Therefore, PBZ is a viable strategy, because it presents a series of advantages in the production of fruit trees. However, it is vital to generate protocols that seek its regulation with a rational and sustainable approach.