The effects of Ancymidol on Petunia hybrida Hort. 'Orchid Bouquet'

Differences in the response of Petunia hybrida Hort. 'Orchid Bouquet* to varying rates of ancymidol were found. Plant size varied according to time of year grown; however, there was no impairment in the activity of ancymidol on plant retarda-tion. Soil drench applications were more consistent in overall plant retardation than foliar spray applications. Height and foliar spread were reduced in proportion to the amount of active ingredient applied, up to a maximum of 66 ppm. Stem diameter, leaf and stem dry weight, bloom size, root fresh weight, and root dry weight were all signifi-cantly reduced by ancymidol treatments. The number of blooms and fresh weights of leaves and stems were not affected by ancymidol treatments.