Chemical Loosening Agents to Assist Mechanical Harvest of Olive1

Abstract

Abstract (2-chloroethyl)phosphonic acid (ethephon) applied at pH 6.8 to 7.0 resulted in fruit loosening which allowed mechanical harvest of at least 85% of the olive crop but there was excessive leaf loss. Inclusion of calcium salts helps offset leaf loss, but also decreases fruit loosening. 2-chloroethyl-tris-(2-methoxyethoxy)-silane (Alsol) and (2-chloroethyl)-methyl-bis-(phenylmethoxy)-silane (CGA 15281) appeared to be more superior looseners than either ethephon or GAF 7767141 (an ethylene generating material) with less leaf loss following treatment.