Question

Which of the following factor is NOT favourable for induction of staminate flowers in Watermelon ?

• A. Excessive nitrogen application
• B. High temperature condition
• C. Long day length
• D. Application of ethrel@150 ppm

Hint:

Sex expression in cucurbits is influenced by environment and hormones:
Favouring Male (Staminate) Flowers: High temperature, long days, gibberellins.
Favouring Female (Pistillate) Flowers: Low temperature, short days, ethylene (Ethrel), auxins. Ethrel releases ethylene, which promotes femaleness.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: High temperature and long day length are known to favour staminate (male) flower production in watermelon.
Step 2: Excessive nitrogen supports vegetative growth without suppressing male flowers.
Step 3: Ethrel releases ethylene, which promotes female flowers and suppresses staminate flower formation.
Step 4: The correct answer is Application of ethrel@150 ppm.