In the cocoa tree, the genes for producing an abscission zone are in pedicles. The
process is hormonally driven by ethylene whilst auxins apparently decrease the sensitivity
to ethylene. When the level of auxin declones, a special layer of cells (the abscission
layer) is formed at the base of petiole or fruit stalk. Ethylene stimulates the production of
enzimes that degrade the middle lamella beetween cells in the abscission zone. The concept
development so far is correct that should be possible to delay abscission by aplication of
sinthetic auxins. Aplication of compound enhance levels of auxins or decrease absicic
acid and /or ethylene. Such conditions may inhibit young fruit abscission and promote
fruit development.
