Abstract

This greenhouse experiment was conducted to determining the growth response of Pelargonium peltatum to application of Alar, Cycocel and Bonzi at different growth stage. The experiment was laid down as randomized complete block design with three replications. On the test plants it was observed that the application of Alar, Cycocel and Bonzi considerably affected most of the evaluated parameters. Alar, Cycocel and Bonzi reduced the height of the test plant and branching habit was induced. Accordingly, the highest number branch per plant was obtained from plants treated with Cycocel at their active growth stage (5.07). However this maximum result was not statistically different with Bonzi applied at active growth stage (5.20) and Alar applied at active growth stage (4.67). The respective lost number of branches per plant was recorded from plants which did not receive retardant chemicals (1.87). Overall, the investigation entails that Alar, Cycocel and Bonzi can influence growth of Pelargonium peltatum and cutting yield (branching). From commercial grower point of view, obtaining large number of quality cuttings is crucial. Hence, application of Cycocel at their active growth stage which demonstrated positive influence on cutting production can be recommended for use by commercial growers in Ethiopia