AGRI Grovestudies
1a. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a tropical fruit known for its large size, distinctive appearance, and unique flavor.
1b. The "healthiest" fruit can be subjective, as different fruits offer a wide range of nutrients and health benefits. However, here are some fruits that are generally considered to be highly nutritious and beneficial for overall health. fruits like Apple, Banana , Berries , Papaya , etc.
1c. Amrapali - Mango
Allahabadi safeda - guava
Pisang Raja - Banana
Section B
2a. Fruit cultivation can face several challenges and problems, which can vary depending on factors such as the specific fruit crop, location, climate, pests, and diseases. Here are some common problems in fruit cultivation:
Climate and Weather Conditions: Fruit crops are sensitive to climatic variations, such as extreme temperatures, frost, drought, and excessive rainfall. Unfavorable weather conditions can affect flowering, fruit set, and overall fruit quality.
Pest and Disease Infestation: Insects, mites, fungi, bacteria, and viruses can attack fruit crops, leading to reduced yields and poor fruit quality. Common pests include fruit flies, aphids, caterpillars, and mites, while diseases like fungal infections, bacterial infections, and viral diseases can cause significant damage.
Soil and Nutrient Management: Fruit crops require specific soil conditions and nutrients for optimal growth. Issues such as soil fertility, nutrient deficiencies or imbalances, pH levels, and poor drainage can affect plant health and productivity.
Pollination Problems: Many fruit crops rely on pollinators for successful fruit set and development. Factors like declining bee populations, inadequate pollinator presence, or poor pollination practices can result in reduced yields and misshapen or undeveloped fruits.
Post-Harvest Losses: Fruit crops are prone to post-harvest losses due to factors like improper handling, inadequate storage conditions, and transportation issues. These can lead to spoilage, reduced shelf life, and economic losses for farmers.
Market Challenges: Fruit cultivation also involves market-related challenges such as price fluctuations, market demand and supply dynamics, competition, and access to market channels. Farmers need to navigate these challenges to ensure profitability and market success.
Labor and Management: Fruit cultivation often requires labor-intensive practices, including pruning, thinning, harvesting, and pest management.
2b. Indian Mango Varieties:
Alphonso: Known as the "King of Mangoes,"
Kesar:
Totapuri:
Langra:
Dasheri:
Chaunsa: Chaunsa
Indian Citrus Varieties:
Nagpur Orange.
Khasi Papeda:
Kinnow:
Indian Banana Varieties:
Cavendish:
Robusta
Nendran: Nendran bananas, also known as Kerala bananas.
2c. Fruit crops can be affected by various diseases that can significantly impact their health, productivity, and quality. Here are some major diseases of fruit crops and their control measures:
Citrus Canker :
Disease Symptoms: Raised corky lesions or cankers on fruits, leaves, and stems.
Control Measures: Prune and destroy infected plant parts, copper-based sprays, maintaining proper plant spacing, and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Grape Powdery Mildew:
Disease Symptoms: White, powdery fungal growth on leaves, shoots, and berries.
Control Measures: Fungicide applications (sulfur or other recommended fungicides), planting resistant cultivars, pruning for better air circulation, and proper canopy management.
Tomato Late Blight:
Disease Symptoms: Dark, water-soaked lesions on leaves and stems, often with white, fuzzy fungal growth.
Control Measures: Plant resistant cultivars, proper sanitation, regular scouting and early detection, fungicide applications, and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Banana Panama Disease (Fusarium Wilt):
Disease Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing, and collapse of leaves, vascular discoloration.
Control Measures: Plant resistant cultivars, soil solarization, crop rotation, and strict quarantine measures to prevent the spread of infected plants.
Mango Anthracnose:
Disease Symptoms: Dark, sunken lesions on fruits, leaves, and twigs.
Control Measures: Fungicide applications, pruning for improved airflow and light penetration, proper sanitation (removal of infected plant debris), and avoiding excessive moisture.
2d.
SECTION C
3a. Guava (Psidium guajava) is a tropical fruit tree that requires proper fertilizer, weed management, and irrigation to ensure healthy growth and optimal fruit production. Here's an overview of the fertilizer requirements, weed management, and irrigation methods for guava cultivation:
Fertilizer Requirements:
Soil Testing: Before applying fertilizers, it is recommended to conduct a soil test to assess nutrient levels and pH. This helps determine the specific fertilizer requirements for your guava orchard.
Balanced Fertilizer: Guava generally benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), such as 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. The actual nutrient requirements may vary based on soil conditions and crop age.
Application Timing: Fertilizers should be applied in split doses throughout the year. For young guava plants, apply fertilizers every 2-3 months during the first year. Mature plants can be fertilized 2-3 times per year, with the major application done during the pre-flowering and post-harvest stages.
Organic Matter: Incorporating organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or manure, into the soil helps improve soil fertility and structure, enhancing nutrient availability for guava plants.
Weed Management:
Mulching: Applying organic mulch around the base of guava plants helps suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Mulch materials like straw, wood chips, or dried leaves can be used.
Manual Weeding: Regular manual removal of weeds from the guava orchard is essential, especially during the early stages of plant growth. Hand weeding or using tools like hoes can help control weed competition.
Herbicides: In cases of heavy weed infestation, selective herbicides labeled for use in fruit crops can be applied following the recommended dosage and safety precautions. Consult with local agricultural authorities for appropriate herbicide recommendations.
Irrigation Methods:
Initial Establishment: Young guava plants require frequent watering to aid establishment. Irrigate the plants immediately after transplanting and maintain regular watering until they are well established.
Mature Plants: Once established, guava trees are relatively drought-tolerant but benefit from regular and adequate irrigation. The frequency and amount of irrigation depend on factors such as soil type, weather conditions, and plant water requirements. Irrigate when the soil feels dry to a depth of a few inches.
Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation is a recommended method for guava cultivation as it provides efficient water use, reduces weed growth, and minimizes moisture-related diseases. It also helps direct water to the root zone, reducing water wastage.
Water Management: Avoid waterlogging as guava trees are susceptible to root rot. Proper drainage and avoiding excessive irrigation are essential for maintaining healthy guava plants.
