Effects of pruning on photosynthetic rate, canopy microclimate and yield of mango cv. Amrapali under high-density planting.
Bhanu Pratap, Sharma H. C., Goswami A. M., Singh S. K., Mishra L. N.
Author Affiliation: Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012, India.
Indian Journal of Horticulture 60 : 339-342
Abstract : Fourteen-year-old trees of mango cv. Amrapali grown in New Delhi, India under high-density planting (2.5×2.5 m) were subjected to light (10 cm from the apex), moderate (20 cm from the apex) or severe (30 cm from the apex) pruning during 1999/2000 and 2000/2001. The highest photosynthetic rates were recorded for light and moderate pruning in both years. In general, the photosynthetic rate was greatest in the canopy facing east. Severe pruning resulted in the greatest light penetration. Light penetration was greater at 1-2 m from the crotch than 0-1 m from the crotch. Relative humidity, which was highest under the control (no pruning), decreased with the increase in pruning intensity. Canopy temperature was highest under severe pruning, and lowest under light pruning and control. Fruit yield was highest under moderate pruning, followed by severe and light pruning.