Agricultural Research Institute, Sabour
Studies on floral biology of custard apple (Sahebganj cultivar) revealed that flowering continued from March to August with a maximum in April-May but fruit setting started from August as the climatic conditions are most suited.
Maximum anthesis started between 5.30 PM to 5.30 AM and the maximum dehiscence took place between 11.30 AM to 2.30 PM. Pollens were compound with four individual grains. Maximum pollen germination was obtained in 20 per cent sucrose-agar solution. At the time of dehiscence, receptivity of stigma started disappearing and completely lost after six hours resulting in poor fruit set. It is suggested that more fruit set may be obtained if the receptivity of stigma is enhanced by auxin sprays.
