Asymmetric growth of citrus fruit peel induced by localized application of gibberellins in lanolin pastes

Lanolin pastes containing 0.02-1.0% gibberellin A₄₊₇(GA₄₊₇) were applied to one side of developing citrus fruitlets and caused thickening of the peel in the proximity of the treated zone. Enlargement of albedo (= the white portion of citrus peel) cells was involved, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. The flavedo (= the coloured portion of the peel) and the pulp were not affected by the hormone. Gibberellin A₃ was slightly less active than GA₄₊₇. Cultivars with a naturally thick peel, such as 'Marsh' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) and 'Shamouti' orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) responded more strongly than thin-peel cultivars. The role of gibberellins in the differential growth of citrus fruit tissues is discussed.