The effect of simulated borer infested shoot pruning on yield parameters of eggplant

Pruning and prompt disposal of pest-damaged eggplant shoots at regular intervals up to the first harvest is an important component in the eggplant fruit and shoot borer (EFSB) IPM strategy. However, the impact of pruning on yield parameters remains unknown. We conducted field experiments during 2005–2007 to analyze the impact of pruning on the yield of an EFSB-susceptible accession (EG075) and a commercial cultivar (‘Pingtung long’) through simulated studies. Shoot pruning did not have any significant effect on the mean number of fruits per plant in both varieties. However, significant differences in mean fruit length of ‘Pingtung long’ occurred among the treatments; the longest fruit length (25.22 cm) was recorded with 30% shoot pruning. The mean fruit diameter and fruit weight did not differ significantly in ‘Pingtung long’ or EG075, and there was no significant yield reduction due to shoot pruning in either variety.