Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
grafting and inarching grow faster than those propagated by stooling and air-
layering. Grafting at a low height produces a spreading tree, while grafting
high up on the stock produces a non-spreading type.
Field preparation
Land preparation is similar to that with other tree crops. Deep ripping may be
necessary to break up any hard subsoil layer. In some cases sulfur has to be
added if the soil is too alkaline. This is also the time when organic matter can
be added without interference from the tree canopy.
Transplanting and spacing
Transplanting should be done just before or early in the wet season if no
irrigation is available. Often, organic matter and P fertilizer are added to the
planting hole (0.5 m × 0.5 m × 0.5 m) before planting. No shade is required
after transplanting. Spacing is largely dependent upon environment, soil
characteristics, vigour of the cultivar and the planned orchard management.
Various patterns, with spacing from 6 m × 3 m to 7 m × 15 m, are recom-
mended. High-density planting (3 m × 2.5 m) has been tested with grafted
trees, and, while individual tree yields are low, total yield is higher, although
extensive pruning is essential (Ram and Sirohi, 1991). In the subtropics, closer
spacing (6 m × 4 m or 6 m × 3 m) is being used, with more detailed formation
pruning and annual maintenance pruning to prevent the trees from becoming
too large.
Irrigation
Young transplants require about 20-30 l of water every 4-5 days for about
2-3 months during establishment. For the remainder of the fi rst year, rates
may be increased to 40-50 l at 7-10-day intervals. During the second year,
rates are increased to about 100-150 l per 10 days. More may be necessary
during particularly dry periods. In the third year, rates of 200-300 l/tree at
15-day intervals may be adequate. Rates may be decreased or increased and
the intervals shortened or lengthened, in accordance with soil type and the
amounts and periods of rainfall.
Four- to 5-year-old grafted trees can begin to bear fruit, and cultural
practices should be adjusted to refl ect this change. For bearing trees,
especially in the tropics, it is desirable to have a 3-4-month dry period prior
to fl owering, to reduce vegetative fl ush growth. This is easily accomplished in
