ISHS Acta Horticulturae 632: XXVI International Horticultural Congress: Citrus and Other Subtropical and Tropical Fruit Crops: Issues, Advances and Opportunities
SUSTAINABLE LITCHI (LITCHI CHINENSIS SONN.) PRODUCTION IN WEST BENGAL, INDIA |
| Author: | S.K. Mitra |
| Keywords: | cultivars, propagation, nutrition, flowering, fruit set, fruit cracking |
| Abstract:
Litchi originated in the area near southern China and northern Vietnam and was introduced into India during the 18th century. It is now an important commercial fruit in India. Cultivation of litchi is widely spread in eastern India which provides livelihood opportunities to millions of people. Frost-free, cool, and dry winters, and humid summers, free from hot and dry winds characterize this growing zone. In West Bengal about 3600 hectares is under litchi cultivation. More than 15 cultivars are grown in this region however ‘Bombai’ is the major commercial cultivar in the state. Air layering is the commonly adopted method of propagation. Integrated nutrient management based on leaf nutrient standards for sustainable production has been worked out. To combat irregular bearing the essential practices are focused on the regulation of the trees vegetative growth by physical and chemical means. Growth regulators are applied to discourage winter flushing in favour of flower initiation, to prevent excessive fruit drop, and to minimize fruit cracking. | |
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