Using 6-BA to improve fruit size on Abate Fetel and Forelle pears

We evaluated the use of 6-BA (Maxcel) as a means to increase fruit size in Abate Fetel and Forelle pears.  Application of 6-BA during the cell division stage of fruit development had no effect on fruit size. However, in Abate Fetel, there was a significant increase in the number of fruit per tree without a decrease in fruit size.  This suggests that 6-BA can be used to increase fruit set and production in Abate Fetel.  In addition, an increase in fruit size may be attained if the additional fruit that set are timely thinned.