Induced protection in Coffer arabica (L.) against the effects of frost temperature

Abstract

Coffee plants treated with phosphorated systemic insectides (Solvirex and Disyston) in field trials at Pinhal, Garça and Lucianópolis, SP, Brazil, showed to be protected against the effects of freezing temperatures. Also a better further recovery after the frost occurrence was observed. Treatments varied according to the product formulation (granulated or technical) to be applied, dosage and time intervals between two consecutive applications. All treated plants received three applications. Chemical analysis of leaf extracts from treated plants showed that the product enhances an increase in protein and sugar contents correlated with the protection against the effects of freezing temperatures. In the intercellular spaces of control plant leaves, the presence of different types of bacteria was observed, which were absent in the treated plant leaves. Sulphone derivatives were not detected in coffee berries of treated plants. There was no difference in the coffee flavour or quality between coffee berries from treated and untreated trees.