Abscission of Pistachio Inflorescence Buds as Affected by Leaf Area and Number of Nuts1

Abscission of inflorescence buds increased progressively as leaf area decreased or number of nuts per branch increased. The data strongly indicate that dominance of the developing seed over the inflorescence buds in competition for carbohydrates might be responsible for bud abscission. However, the possible involvement of a hormone(s) originating in the leaves should not be overlooked.