Li Zhen

1 Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang Colloge of Zhejiang AandF University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
2 Hainan Institute of Biotechnology, Haikou, 570206, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Horticulture, 2026, Vol. 16, No. 2   doi: 10.5376/ijh.2026.16.0008
Received: 10 Jan., 2026    Accepted: 28 Feb., 2026    Published: 05 Apr., 2026

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Wang X.C., and Li Z., 2026, Application of plant growth regulators in enhancing loquat fruit set, International Journal of Horticulture, 16(2): 88-97 (doi: 10.5376/ijh.2026.16.0008)

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), a key specialty fruit tree in southern China, enjoys high economic value due to its nutritious properties and unique flavor. However, in actual production, loquat often faces challenges with low fruit set and unstable yield, hindering the development of the industry. This study describes the physiological basis and key influencing factors of loquat fruit set, as well as the types and functional characteristics of commonly used plant growth regulators. The study focuses on their mechanisms of promoting fruit set through regulation of ovule development, pollen tube growth, and carbon and nitrogen metabolism. Furthermore, the study systematically reviews recent progress in the application of regulators in loquat cultivation, exploring the effects of different treatment methods, application timing, varietal responses, and comprehensive regulatory measures. Although regulators show promise in improving fruit set, they still face numerous challenges, including dosage safety, varietal adaptability, and the elucidation of regulatory mechanisms. This study holds the promise of achieving a synergistic improvement in loquat fruit set, yield, and quality, providing theoretical support and technical guidance for efficient cultivation and sustainable industrial development.

Loquat; Fruit-setting rate; Plant growth regulators; Hormonal regulation; Fruit tree cultivation