07 Apr Importance of training and pruning in cashew young plantation
काजू के युवा बागानों में प्रशिक्षण और छंटाई का महत्व
Cashew is an important fruit and nut crop with a monetary value. It is an extremely resilient crop that requires early training and pruning for optimum canopy shape management and increased output.
We are now importing raw cashew nuts (RCN) from other countries since the yield of cashew plantations is quite poor and it is difficult to meet the demand of the processing sector.
Training and pruning are critical for reducing Raw Cashew Nut (RCN) imports and increasing production. Cashew crop is sun loving plant.
Training in young cashew plants
During the first year of cashew cultivation, we must attend instruction to ensure good shape and branching. After planting, no branches should be allowed below 0.75-1 m in height, and new sprouts should be removed as soon as they appear to maintain the main branch height of 0.75 to 1 m.
Pruning in young cashew plants
After pinching at 0.75 to 1 meter, 3 to 4 branches should be permitted to develop in all directions, with half of the spacing controlled for height and canopy spread based on the cashew plantation’s spacing specifications. For example, trimming branches can keep a 7 mx 7 m spacing, 3.5-meter height, and canopy spread intact.
To preserve field sanitation, any dead, dried, or water shoots, as well as weak shoots, must be trimmed between May and June each year (prior to rain).
To prevent disease or pest infestation, spray the cut area of the branches with a 1% Bordeaux mixture / SAAF / Broad spectrum fungicide spray.
The following year, we must maintain the canopy form with light pruning to create an umbrella shape that allows for proper sunshine exposure to generate more flushes, blooms, and cashew nut yields.
Advantage of training and pruning in young plantation
- Maximum utilization of light.
- Avoidance of built-up microclimate which is congenial for pest and diseases infestation.
- Convenience in carrying out the inter-cultural operations.
- Maximizing productivity with quality fruit production.
- Economy in obtaining the required canopy architecture.
Conclusion
Initial training and pruning for 2 to 3 years will aid in the maintenance of canopy shape in subsequent years, as well as the ease of other cultivation aspects such as weeding, manure and fertilizer application, plant protection sprays, picking of fallen cashew fruits, and so on.
Fruits can also be harvested at reachable heights for processing into value-added products. Proper training and pruning during the early years will boost the yield of cashew nuts and apples.
Authors:
Dr.Bhagya H P*, Dr. J D Adiga, Dr.Babli mog, Dr.Aswathy, C and Dr.Jyoti Nishad
