Paclobutrazol 40% SC (Taboli) – A Comprehensive Guide for Farmers

Introduction to Paclobutrazol 40% SC (Taboli)

Paclobutrazol 40% SC, commercially known as Taboli, is a plant growth regulator (PGR) belonging to the triazole class of chemicals. It is widely used in agriculture to control vegetative growth, promote flowering, and improve fruit set in various crops.

Developed by ICI (now Syngenta), Taboli works by inhibiting gibberellin biosynthesis, leading to shorter internodes, thicker stems, and enhanced reproductive growth. It is particularly effective in mango, apple, grape, and other fruit crops.

Key Features of Paclobutrazol 40% SC (Taboli)

Property	Details
Chemical Class	Triazole
Mode of Action	Gibberellin Biosynthesis Inhibitor
Formulation	Suspension Concentrate (SC)
Primary Use	Plant Growth Regulation
Target Crops	Mango, Apple, Grapes, Citrus, Tea
Residual Effect	3-6 months
Toxicity (WHO Class)	Slightly Hazardous (Class III)

Mode of Action

Paclobutrazol works by:
✔ Inhibiting the enzyme ent-kaurene oxidase, blocking gibberellin production.
✔ Reducing vegetative growth (shorter internodes, compact plants).
✔ Promoting flowering & fruiting by shifting energy from shoots to reproductive parts.

Benefits of Using Paclobutrazol 40% SC (Taboli)

1. Controls Excessive Vegetative Growth

Reduces unwanted shoot elongation in fruit trees.
Improves light penetration in dense orchards.

2. Enhances Flowering & Fruit Set

Increases flowering intensity in mango, apple, and grapes.
Improves fruit retention and reduces premature dropping.

3. Improves Stress Tolerance

Makes plants more drought-resistant due to reduced leaf area.
Enhances cold resistance in temperate fruits.

4. Reduces Pruning Requirements

Minimizes labor costs in tea plantations & vineyards.

Recommended Crops & Application Methods

1. Mango Cultivation

Dosage: 2-4 ml per tree (soil drench).
Time of Application: 3 months before flowering.
Effect: Increases yield by 20-30%.

2. Apple Orchards

Dosage: 1-2 ml per liter (foliar spray).
Time of Application: Post-harvest (before dormancy).
Effect: Promotes uniform bud break.

3. Grapes

Dosage: 1.5-2 ml per vine (soil application).
Time of Application: Before bud swelling.
Effect: Reduces berry shatter.

4. Tea Plantations

Dosage: 200-300 ml per acre (foliar spray).
Effect: Maintains bush height for easy plucking.

Precautions & Limitations

1. Overdose Risks

⚠ Excessive use can lead to stunted growth & reduced yields.

2. Soil Residue Concerns

⚠ Persists in soil for 6-12 months – avoid repeated use.

3. Not for All Crops

Avoid in cereals & leafy vegetables (delays maturity).

Comparison with Other PGRs

PGR	Mode of Action	Best For	Residual Effect
Paclobutrazol	Gibberellin Inhibitor	Mango, Apple	3-6 months
Chlormequat Chloride	Cell Elongation Blocker	Wheat, Barley	4-8 weeks
Ethephon	Ethylene Releaser	Pineapple, Cotton	2-4 weeks

Farmer Feedback & Case Studies

Mango Farmers (Uttar Pradesh, India): Reported 30% higher yields with Taboli.
Apple Growers (Himachal Pradesh): Achieved early & synchronized flowering.
Grape Vineyards (Nashik, Maharashtra): Reduced berry drop by 15%.

Conclusion: Should You Use Taboli?

Yes, for fruit crops needing growth control & yield boost.
No, for field crops like rice/wheat.

Best Practices:

Follow recommended dosage.
Use soil drench for trees, foliar spray for bushes.

FAQs

Q1. How long does Paclobutrazol take to show effects?
A: 2-3 weeks for growth control, 2-3 months for flowering.

Q2. Can Paclobutrazol be mixed with fertilizers?
A: Yes, but avoid alkaline mixtures.

Q3. Is it safe for organic farming?
A: No, it’s a synthetic PGR.

Q4. What’s the shelf life?
A: 2 years if stored in a cool, dry place.

For customized PGR plans, consult an agronomist!

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Sourashis Chanda

Author (Intern) at Bitlance Tech Hub Private Limited | [email protected]

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