AVG Timing in Almond Trees to Raise Yield Without Kernel Doubling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods of using aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) to increase almond nut set result in kernel doubling, a quality defect that decreases crop value.
Innovation Solution
Applying AVG or its salt to almond trees 2 to 7 weeks after full bloom, when at least 50% of flower buds have reached anthesis, increases nutmeat yield without significant kernel doubling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If AVG is applied to increase almond nut set, then fruit set is improved, but kernel doubling occurs which decreases crop value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies AVG at specific timing (full bloom to 7 days post-bloom) before the critical development stage where kernel doubling occurs. This preliminary action prevents the harmful effect while maintaining the beneficial fruit set effect, as the treatment window is carefully controlled to precede the stage where kernel doubling would be initiated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the application parameters of AVG, specifically the timing of application relative to bloom stage. By changing when AVG is applied (full bloom to 7 days post-bloom rather than later stages), the patent achieves different physiological outcomes - promoting fruit set while avoiding kernel doubling. This parameter change transforms the effect of the same chemical agent.
2Productivity
If AVG application timing is extended to increase yield, then productivity improves, but kernel doubling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a specific application window (full bloom to 7 days post-bloom) that acts preliminarily during the critical early development phase. This timing ensures that AVG promotes nut set and early growth without interfering with subsequent kernel development, thereby maintaining quality uniformity while improving yield.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies AVG at a specific partial duration (maximum 7 days post-bloom) rather than extended application. This limited, controlled application provides sufficient stimulus for yield improvement while avoiding excessive action that would lead to kernel doubling and quality issues.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances almond nutmeat yield while avoiding the quality defect of kernel doubling, demonstrating improved crop value.
Implementation Method 1
AVG is a known ethylene antagonist. AVG formulations have been shown to inhibit fruit drop and retain stone fruit and apple fruit quality
Implementation Method 2
AVG formulations have been shown to increase cherry and walnut fruit set
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a method of increasing almond nutmeat yield comprising applying aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) or a salt thereof at an effective rate to an almond tree following full bloom.