Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new proposed pesticide registration for a plant growth regulator product containing the active ingredient metamitron for post-flowering fruit thinning treatments primarily for apple and pear trees. This initiative is intended to provide fruit growers with new fruit management options that are expected to change existing fruit tree cultivation practices.

The mechanism of action of metamitron, is to help fruit trees remove excess fruit through foliar application. This approach creates better growing conditions for the remaining fruit, which is expected to improve fruit quality and overall plant health.

As an important part of the registration proposal, EPA released a series of evaluations. The results indicate that no human health risks of concern have been identified when used in accordance with label directions and are unlikely to adversely affect identified species or critical habitat.EPA has initiated an informal consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) regarding the results of these assessments.

EPA emphasizes that it will not make any final decision on the registration until it completes its informal consultation with the FWS. EPA will open a 15-day public comment period through October 14, 2024, and after considering public comments, will evaluate whether to approve the registration based on the registration criteria of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).