EVALUATION OF SOME LITCHI CULTIVARS UNDER
SHIWALIK FOOTHILLS OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
Thesis
by
MASOOD AHMAD
(H-2018-44-M)
submitted to
Dr. YASHWANT SINGH PARMAR UNIVERSITY
OF HORTICULTURE AND FORESTRY
SOLAN (NAUNI) HP - 173 230 INDIA
in
partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree
of
MASTER OF SCIENCE
(HORTICULTURE)
FRUIT SCIENCE
DEPARTMENT OF FRUIT SCIENCE
COLLEGE OF HORTICULTURE
2020
Dr Pramod Kumar
(Senior Scientist)
Department of Fruit Science
Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of
Horticulture & Forestry (Nauni) Solan
(HP)-173 230 India
CERTIFICATE - I
This is to certify that the thesis titled, “Evaluation of Some Litchi Cultivars under
Shiwalik Foothills of Himachal Pradesh” submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science (Horticulture) Fruit Science
in the discipline of Horticultural Sciences to Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of
Horticulture and Forestry, (Nauni) Solan (HP)-173230 India is a bonafide research work
carried out by Mr. Masood Ahmad (H-2018-44-M) son of Sh. Ali Akbar under my
supervision and that no part of this thesis has been submitted for any other degree or diploma.
The assistance and help received during the course of this investigation has been fully
acknowledged.
Place: Nauni, Solan
Dated:
_______________________
Dr Pramod Kumar
Chairman
Advisory Committee
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
In the name of Almighty Allah (SWT), the most gracious and the most merciful, All the
praise belong to him, the Lord (who is the Creator Sustainer and Guide) of all over the
World. He created man dust and awarded with sobriquet of creation’ may mercy and
blessing of almighty be upon the last, Apostle Prophet Mohammad (SAW).
With an overwhelming sense of legitimate and pride genuine obligation, I seize this
rare and best opportunity to express my deep of gratitude, indebtedness and personal regards
to my esteemed and talented adviser Dr. Pramod Kumar, Senior Scientist, Department of
Fruit Science for his kind stewardship, guidance, keen interest and constant persuading
during my entire degree programme.
I express my heartiest thanks to my respected worthy members of my advisory
committee, Dr. Gopal Singh, Scientist (Fruit Science), Dr. Uday Sharma, Principal Scientist
(Soils) and Dr. AK Joshi, Associate Director (R&E), RHRTS, Dhaulakuan, Sirmour for their
constant help, encouragement and valuable suggestions.
I also bestow my heartfelt thanks to Dr JS Chandel, Professor and Head and the
faculty members of Department of Fruit Science for their guidance and support.
With deep sense of pride and dignity, I would like to mention the name of my
respected father Sh. Haji Ali Akbar Nazari, who always trust on my ability and pray me to be
successful in all parts of my life, especially in the academic arena.
I don’t have such words to thank and express my adoration towards my family
members and my lovely mother, may her soul rest in peace!, Father-in-Law, Sh. Haji
Azizullah Nazari who always provide same love and affection to me as father and encouraged
every time in academic arena to achieve this goal.
I would like to avail this chance to extend my thanks from dearest seniors, Dr.
Mohammad Ashaq, Ms. Ashwini N, and Mr. Rakesh Kumar who helped me every time during
my research.
I am highly thankful for the cooperation and affection, which I received from my
Friends and classmates and friends especially from Ms. Simran Saini, Ms. Divya Joshi, Mr.
Sajjad Khan Atal, Mr. Shir Husain Hamdard, Mr. Wahidullah Alokozay, Mr. Sayed
Sefatullah Khan for their good company and marvelous behavior and friendly attitude
during my study period.
I should be so much grateful to the Government of Afghanistan, Ministry of
Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, and Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New
Delhi to enable me this opportunity to pursue my Master’s degree under India-Afghanistan
Fellowship Programme.
I would also like to convey special thanks to Mr. Jagdeep and Mr. Sohan Lal, DPT
Computers for their cooperation in helping me to complete this manuscript.
Needless to say errors and omissions are mine.
Place: Nauni, Solan
Date:
/ /
(Masood Ahmad)
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
TITLE
PAGE(S)
1.
INTRODUCTION
1-3
2.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
4-13
3.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
14-24
4.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
25-40
5.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
41-43
LITERATURE CITED
44-50
APPENDICES
i-iv
ABSTRACT
51
BRIEF BIO-DATA
ABBREVIATIONS USED
%
:
per cent
⁰C
:
degree Celsius
cm
:
centimetre
cc
:
cubic centimetre
dSm-1
:
desi simone per meter
e. g
:
for example
et al.
:
et al. (co-workers)
etc
:
et cetera
g
:
gram
ha
:
hectare
i.e.
:
that is
kg
:
kilogram
kg/ha
:
kilogram per hectare
L
:
litre
m
:
meter
m2
:
meter square
mg
:
milligram
ml
:
millilitre
mm
:
millimetre
ºE
:
degree East
o
N
:
degree North
ppm
:
parts per million
viz.
:
videlicet (namely)
LIST OF TABLES
Table
Title
Page(s)
1.
Vegetative growth characteristics of some litchi cultivars
26
2.
Generative traits of some litchi cultivars in Shiwalik foothills
28
3.
Time, duration and other flowering characters of litchi cultivars
30
4.
Fruit set, fruit drop and fruit retention in some litchi cultivars
32
5.
Fruit yield and yield efficiency of some litchi cultivars
33
6.
Physical fruit characteristics of litchi cultivars
35
7.
Stone, aril, pulp and fruit cracking in some litchi cultivars
36
8.
Biochemical characteristic of fruits of some litchi cultivars
38
9.
Leaf nutrient content of litchi cultivars in Shiwalik foothills
39
10.
DOP indexing determined from leaf nutrients in litchi cultivars
40
LIST OF PLATES
Plate
Title
Between
pages
1.
Overview of litchi orchard
15-16
2.
Growth habit of litchi cultivars-I
26-27
3.
Growth habit of litchi cultivars-II
26-27
4.
Flowering of litchi cultivars-I
30-31
5.
Flowering of litchi cultivars-II
30-31
6.
Fruit set of litchi cultivars-I
32-33
7.
Fruit set of litchi cultivars-II
32-33
8.
Fruit development of some litchi cultivars-I
34-35
9.
Fruit development of some litchi cultivars-II
34-35
10.
Mature fruits of litchi cultivars
34-35
11.
Stones of litchi cultivars
34-35
Chapter-1
INTRODUCTION
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) belongs to family Sapindaceae, is an evergreen subtropical fruit crop. The crop is native to Southern China, originated in Kwantung and Fukien
provinces and is presently cultivated in different countries lying within sub-tropical climates.
Major litchi producing countries of the World are China, India, Vietnam, Thailand,
Bangladesh, South Africa and Nepal. It is also grown to a smaller extent in USA, Australia,
Japan, Philippines and Indonesia. The crop is highly popular both in regional and domestic
markets. It has tremendous domestic market and export potential in the country but is specific
to edaphic and climatic preferences. Its demand for export is increasing especially for fresh,
canned and dried litchi fruits. India stands second country in the world of litchi production
with total cultivable area of 92,000 ha with production of 600,000 MT (Anonymous, 2017).
The productivity of the crop although is better compared to native country but still a wide gap
exists between current productivity of 7-8 tones/ha and realizable potential productivity of
14-15 tones/ha. Litchi contributes significantly to the growers’ economy in Bihar, West
Bengal, Assam and Jharkhand states of India which accounts for 78 per cent of the total
production in the country. In Himachal Pradesh, it is grown over an area of 5,407 ha with a
production of 6,071 MT (Anonymous, 2016). Due to non-climacteric in nature, it has low
ethylene production and respiration rates. The fruit is delicious, rich in flavor and juicy pulp
(aril) with attractive red colored pericarp (Khalid et al., 2017).
The litchi tree is 10-28 m in height and with fleshy pink fruits weighing up to 20 g
with dimension as 5 cm (long) and 4 cm (wide). It contains juice (60%), rag (8%), seed
(19%) and skin (13%) depending upon variety and weather conditions. It is also a best source
of vitamins such as vitamin C, proteins, fats, pectin and minerals especially calcium,
phosphorus and iron. The fruits are used as good food and drink but a very little amount is
consume into juice, ice cream, yogurt, pickles and preserves (Rajwana et al., 2010). The crop
is well suited to short, dry and cool winters and summers with high rainfall (1200 mm). The
requirement of high atmospheric moisture is an important environmental factor. A mild, cold
and dry winter is complementary conditions for litchi flowers (Chaudhary et al., 2017).
Litchi trees in tropical and sub-tropical climates do not display seasonal natural
phenomena that incorporate to able plants to each climate including flowering to keep away
from damage (Singh et al., 2016; Anjum et al., 2017). Cool temperature is decisive for floral
induction in litchi. Well developed leaves are crucial in the floral induction process, and may
be reacting quickly to the environmental facility. Generally, the trees come into vegetative
flushing in late falls, then flowering and form mature leaves during flower development in
winter. End to end complete flowers together with urgent other small flowers perhaps causes
understand contest and leads to poor fruit set. For other cultivars, however, this may be mixup with short panicles formed in late flowering, which hot conditions are more expressing
approval for floral development and pollination and or fertilization processes (Chang et al.,
2016). It also exhibits appropriate growth in a climate characteristic of the area of its origin.
Frost in winter and dry great heat in summer are detrimental to litchi cultivation although
periodic cold break suddenly in winter between 1-5oC appear to be important for fruit bearing
(Sarin et al., 2011). Litchi is an entomophilous fruit crop. The crop completes its growth
cycle in different principal stages i.e. the bud, leaf and shoot formation, the complete flower
emergence, fruit development phase (Soni and Agrawal, 2017).
The heterozygosity of litchi make a wide covered all the areas, which serves as the
starting point for new chosen through harm precocious genes and make full for use,
natural hybrid good health and other genetic is the skill full Harding (Gupta et al., 2017).
The edible portion is fleshy, white, semi-translucent, sweet smell flavour and juicy aril with
a single seed surrounded by a pericarp. The fruit skin (pericarp) is green, yellow-red or
red and tuberculate depending on the cultivar. Fruit cracking is a biggest problem of litchi.
The plant requires cool dry winters and warm wet summers for commercial production.
Besides, litchi is having a long history of cultivation, but its genetic base is quite narrow and
most of the present day cultivated varieties are the result of clonal selection or seedling
selection. Very limited efforts have been made in the varietal improvement through
hybridization and employing modern breeding tools. The yield of litchi cultivars varies
significantly from region to region, indicating the need for region-based varietal evaluation
and evolution. The selection of proper cultivar is crucial for the successful cultivation of
litchi and improvement of fruit quality. Therefore, it is desirable to know the fruit quality
traits of the litchi cultivars, being grown throughout the world, so that the particular cultivars
can be selected for a particular region with desirable quality characters. Little information is
available on litchi trees pertaining to the suitability of the cultivars that can be grown
2
successfully under particular ago-climatic conditions. The present research therefore, is
contemplated to study the horticultural performance of some litchi cultivars namely, Early
Large Red, Dehradun, Calcuttia, Rose Scented and Seedless Late under Shiwalik foothills of
Himachal Pradesh with the following objectives:
i)
To evaluate different litchi cultivars with respect to growth and flowering
characteristics.
ii)
To study yield performance and fruit quality characteristics of litchi cultivars.
3
Chapter-2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is an important commercial sub-tropical fruit crop
which exhibits appropriate growth in a climate characteristic of the area of its origin. The
area under its cultivation has increased manifolds due to increase in demand. However, there
is need to improve productivity and also widening the genetic base. Concerted research
efforts and effective linkages are essential. Suitable cultivars are needed for various climatic
conditions. Frost in winter and dry intense heat in summer are detrimental to litchi cultivation
although periodic cold snaps in winter (1-5oC) appear to be essential for bearing of fruits.
optimum plant growth at 30oC and flowering occurs at temperature of 10oC while, it ceases
below temperature of 15oC. In India, maximum temperature during flowering varies from
21oC in February to 38oC in the month of June. However, wet spring/summers and dry winter
conditions are desirable for commercial fruiting (Sarin et al., 2011). Inflorescence in litchi is
small, without corolla, yellowish-white in colour formed on terminal branches with branched
panicles, vary in length from 10 to 40 cm depending on the cultivars. Panicles bear hundreds
of yellowish-white flowers in a series of male and female flowers. Cultivars with many
female flowers have the potential to be high yielding (Menzel and Simpson, 2016). The
cultivars showed significant qualitative and quantitative differences in composition
(Emanuele et al., 2017). Variability in vegetative growth traits, flowering and fruit quality
parameters of litchi fruits has been reported by various workers in different agro-climatic
conditions of the World. The earlier work cited with respect to these has been reviewed and
elaborated under different heads and sub-heads:
2.1
VEGETATIVE GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS
Thapa et al. (2014) evaluated seven litchi cultivars viz., Muzaffarpur, Bedana
Calcuttia, Shahi, Bombai, Elaichi and China in Terai region of West Bengal for vegetative
growth characteristics during the cropping period. China exhibited better vegetative response
towards plant height, number of new shoot per tree and length of new shoots. Gupta et al.
(2018) evaluated the response on morphological growth, flowering and yield quality of Shahi
cultivars of litchi. The results showed that the application of inorganic fertilizers significantly
affected canopy volume, trunk girth, spread, canopy height, panicle length, yield and number
of fruits per tree with maximum canopy height (4.2 m), maximum tree spread (7.75 m) and
maximum canopy volume (32.14 m3). Chandola and Mishra (2015) investigated litchi trees of
uniform age group of 21 years of the cultivars viz., Rose Scented, Calcuttia, Late Seedless,
Early Seedless, Longia, Kasba, Mandraji, McLean, Dehradun and Shahi which had shown a
significant variation in among vegetative growth characteristics namely, tree spread, cross
trunk sectional area, leaf length, breadth, number of leaves per shoot, leaf area of litchi plants.
2.2
FLORAL BUD INITIATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Flower induction and initiation are the main concern for many litchi researchers.
Flower initiation in litchi starts from white millet stage, requires ascending temperatures and
increased soil moistures. Flower induction takes place in the dormant bud while flower
initiation takes place in the early part of the growing bud stage. After the initiation of
flowering, the development of flower panicle and flowering continues and leads to anthesis,
which lasts about 4-6 weeks depending on temperature and cultivar (Wei et al., 2013).
Temperatures at white millet stage determine the fate of the flower panicle. Healthy terminal
buds produce flowers after a period of relatively low temperature (Menzel and Simpson,
1995).
Despite the agronomic importance of this integrative regulation of floral induction,
little is known about the molecular basis of the interaction. Low temperature favours
flowering in vernalized dependent plants and is required for litchi floral initiation although
the cold requirement varies among the different varieties. Exposure to cold temperature in
winter or early spring promotes litchi floral initiation, while ambient temperature above
20°C significantly reduces litchi flowering (Shen et al., 2016). Unlikely, high temperature
in winter resulted in insufficient cold accumulation for litchi floral initiation, led to
inadequate flowering. Earlier studies have shown that drought prior to winter cold
induction promoted flowering in litchi with reduced cold temperature treatment.
2.3
FLOWERING TRAITS
Panicle length of 28.25 cm in Bombai variety of litchi under West Bengal conditions
has been reported by Sanyal et al. (1996). Rai (2002) stated that the panicles were normally
produced terminally in clusters (10 or more) but in some trees, a high percentage may also be
produced. Khurshid et al. (2004) found maximum length of terminal panicle (34.2 cm) in
Gola cultivar, while, the minimum (25.8 cm) in Bedana cultivar. Maximum length of lateral
panicle (23.8 cm) was also found in Gola cultivar while, the minimum (11.6 cm) was
recorded in Calcuttia. Significant differences were recorded for panicle length in different
5
cultivars by Kumar et al. (2015) who reported that maximum (25.5 cm) panicle length in
Saharanpur, while, the cultivar Seedless Late exhibited minimum panicle length (15.4 cm).
Chandola and Mishra (2015) investigated 20 years old litchi trees of different
cultivars viz., Rose Scented, Calcuttia, Late Seedless, Early Seedless, Longia, Kasba,
Mandraji, McLean, Dehradun and Shahi. The results showed a significant variation in total
number of flowers, sex ratio, fruit drop and retention. Luchoomun and Ramburn (2018)
studied the effect of climate change and variability of Tai So, Hei Ye, Wai Chee, Yook Ho
Pow, Seedless, Bengal, Brewster and Jensen.The studies on the cultivar Seedless revealed no
flowering until five years under prevailing climatic conditions of minimum temperature of
16.4°C and maximum temperature of 29.2°C in Mauritius. They further recorded that the
cultivars namely, Brewster and Bengal required long chilling hours to flower than ‘Tai So’
and the fruits have low pulp to seed ratio of 3.7. The study also revealed that the cultivar
‘Wai Chee’, which bears small and round fruits has high pulp to seed ratio of 7.0 and TSS of
19 per cent, is a late bearer and was irregular in flowering. Yook Ho Pow has shown
promising results in terms of regularity of flowering, adaptability to agro-climatic conditions
of Mauritius.
Kumar et al. (2015) evaluated the horticultural performance of nine litchi cultivars
and showed that the panicle emergence occurred in the second week of February in Dehradun
and Seedless Early and at fourth week of February in Calcuttia and Seedless Late. Earliest
flowering (in the third week of March) was observed in Dehradun, Early Large Red and Rose
Scented, whereas, the cultivar, Seedless Late, flowered late in the month of April. Further,
maximum panicle length was recorded in Saharanpur, whereas, it was minimum in Seedless
Late. Similarly, the sex ratio was highest in Rose Scented (7.13), whereas, it was least in
Calcuttia (1.89).
Litchi flowering is directly related to i) morphological traits viz., flushing time, shoot
maturity, ii) physiological, iii) biochemical constituents of shoots including C/N ratio,
endogenous
phytohormones, and iv) floral
initiation. Effective pollination and
fertilization are pre-requisites for normal fruit set and retention in litchi. The main factors
affecting initial fruit set include the availability of fertile female flowers, adequate pollination
with viable pollen, favourable environmental conditions, the fertilization process and fruit
development (Stern and Gazit, 2003). High fruit drop in litchi often occurs after profuse
flowering, leading to low productivity. The inflorescences have 100-250 flowers under
6
normal conditions, but only a small percentage develops into mature fruit due to flower and
abscission of fruitlet (Stern and Gazit, 1999).
Das et al. (2004) studied the process of flushing and panicle emergence in litchi under
sub-humid sub-tropical conditions of Eastern India, and recorded the intraplant variation in
flushing and shoot growth pattern to influence the overall floriferousness of litchi. All the
shoots with second flush (August) and the third flush (November) were found to bear panicle
in the month of February. Higher shoot girth and larger number of leaves per unit shoot
length in the second flush was crucial for flower bud differentiation. Cessation of growth of
second flush before the emergence of third flush was found to result in panicle emergence.
Qiu et al. (2014) studied the flowering pattern and fruit set of litchi cv. Feizixiao and
recorded the difference in time of the first stage of female flowers formation occurred 15-25
days earlier than the second and third stage of female flowers, respectively, whereas,the
maturity of fruits differed by 7-10 days. The work also suggested that the fruits from the early
flowers were bigger and ripened earlier than those from late flowers with respective better
quality fruits.
2.4
FRUIT YIELD
Mandal and Mitra (2016) evaluated fifteen litchi cultivars for yield and physico-
chemical quality of fruits. The result indicated that cultivar Bedana and Nafarpal were poor
yielders. The cultivar Bombai proved to be the best in terms of yield. Chandola and Mishra
(2015) evaluated the horticultural performance of twenty-one years old litchi trees of ten lichi
cultivars viz., Rose Scented, Calcuttia, Late Seedless, Early Seedless, Longia, Kasba,
Mandraji, McLean, Dehradun and Shahi which showed a significant variation in fruit yield.
Kumar et al. (2015) recorded fruit yield in the decreasing order of Dehradun, Seedless Late,
Muzzafarpur and Mclean.
Long-term study of eight years conduted on nine litchi cultivars grown in Mollisol
and Inceptisol soils revealed that the cultivar ‘Groff’ exhibited highest crop load of 2,57,296
fruits/ha compared to Bosworth-3 and Salathiel (Goenagal et al., 2016). Mandal and Mitra
(2016) examined fifteen litchi cultivars of 28 years old age groupfor yield and physicochemical quality of fruits. The result indicated that Bombai recorded the best yield, whereas,
Bedana and Nafarpal were recorded the poor yielder. A longer duration of cell division
7
during embryo development period led to larger fruits with improved crop load (Wang et al.,
2000; Li et al., 2001; Wittmann, 2002).
2.5
FRUIT QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS
2.5.1 Physical
Mahajan and Dhillon (2000) recorded that Calcuttia exhibited maximum length (3.2
cm) and diameter (3.10 cm) of fruit samles, whereas, the cultivar Hong Kong recorded the
least with corresponding values of 2.69 cm and 2.45 cm. Singh et al. (2010) evaluated
fourteen different cultivars of litchi for physico-chemical quality characteristics of fruits.
Kasba, Bedana and Late Bedana bear good quality fruits compared to China and Rose
Scented. Ghaffoor et al. (1999) examined five litchi cultivars viz., Purbi, Bedana, Serai,
Bombai and Gola for physico-chemical composition of fruits. Mean fruit weight (13.94 g),
length (3.20 cm) and diameter (2.55 cm) were recorded in Serai compared to least in Bedana.
Rai et al. (2002) studied 17 cultivars of litchi under Chotanagpur conditions and reported that
fruit length in different genotypes of litchi varied from 2.77 (Swarna Roopa) to 3.67
(Bombaiya-II). Maximum fruit width was recorded in cultivar Bedana (3.4 cm) followed by
Bombaiya-I (3.25 cm) while the minimum value of (2.52 cm) was recorded in cultivar
Dehradun. Rani et al. (2007) reported that Late Seedless exhibited maximum (24.50 g)
average fruit weight compared to Longia (16.20 g) on contarary to fruit dimension. Haq and
Rab (2012) reported maximum fruit weight in cultivar Gola (23.08) followed by China,
Surahi with corresponding valuses of 22.02 and 20.69 g.
Rai et al. (2002) investigated seventeen genotypes for fruit shape index, specific
gravity, seed shape index, flatness of seed, number of protuberances and other physicochemical characters of fruits. It was inferred from the studies that the cultivars China, Purbi
and Bombaiya-II had elongated fruit shape, whereas, Bedana, Swarna Roopa, Trikolia and
Shahi possessed roundish fruit shape. The cultivars like Bedana, Dehra Rose, Late Bedana,
Green and Rose Scented had high pulp content. The cultivars like Purbi, China, Swarna
Roopa and Dehradun have thick peel. Widely spread protuberances were noticed in cultivars
Swarna Roopa, Dehradun and Bedana. Bedana, Late Bedana and Swarna Roopa had smaller
seeds. Other cultivars, Bombaiya-I, Bombaiya-II, Late Bedana, CHES-II, China and Purbi
had slender seeds, while, Deshi, Bombaiya-I and Late Bedana has flat seeds.Fruit shape index
was maximum (1.2) in cultivar China followed by Purbi (1.19) and 1.17 in Bombaiya-II
8
which indicated an elongated fruit shape, whereas, it was least in Bedana with roundish
shaped fruits.
2.5.2 Biochemical
Rai et al. (2002) recorded minimum percentage of total soluble solids (TSS) in
Bombaiya-II (17.2 oBrix). TSS was highest in Rose Scented (19.7 oB) followed by Late
Seedless (19.3 oBrix), while, it was lowest in Longia (16.1 oBrix) as reported by Rani et al.
(2007). Ghaffoor et al. (1999) examined five litchi cultivars viz., Purbi, Bedana, Serai,
Bombai and Gola for reducing, non-reducing sugars and ascorbic acid content. The cultivar
Bedana exhibited maximum sugars, ascorbic acid and pulp content in fruit samples. Haq and
Rab (2012) recorded that pulp weight of litchi fruit was comparable to the fruit weight with
the maximum in cultivars Gola (16.58 g) followed by cultivars China (16.27 g) and Shahi
(15.90 g). Wall (2006) analyzed different litchi cultivars for ascorbic acid and mineral
content grown in Hawaii agro-climatic conditions. The results showed that ascorbic acid
content was ranged between 27.6 mg/100 g and 36.4 mg/100 g. The study also revealed that
the early maturing lychee cultivar namely, Kaimana had an average ascorbic acid content of
33.2 mg/100g, and the later maturing Groff and Bosworth-3 cultivars had 21.2 and 22.5
mg/100 g, respectively.
Haq and Rab (2012) found that TSS content in cultivar ‘Gola’ (22.13%) was
significantly higher than those of cultivars China and Surahi with (20.39 and 19.49%) of
T.S.S., respectively, while, Bedana had the lowest TSS (16.3%). They observed that the
reducing sugar contents of litchi fruits varied significantly among different cultivars with the
highest reducing sugars (17.98%) recorded in Gola followed by 14.28 and 13.73 per cent in
cultivars China and Surahi, respectively. Mahajan and Dhillon (2000) reported maximum
acidity per cent in Seedless Late followed by Rose Scented and minimum acidity (0.40%) in
Calcuttia cultivar. Kumar et al. (2015) recorded that Early Large Red exhibited the least
titrable acidity (0.27%) compared to Dehradun which recorded the maximum (0.76%) titrable
acidity in fruit samples.Waseem et al. (2002) evaluated that the cultivar Purbi registerd
maximum reducing sugars (6.58%) in fruit samples compared to Bombai (6.13%). Haq and
Rab (2012) showed that reducing sugars content of litchi fruits varied significantly among
different cultivars with the highest (17.98%) in Gola followed by the cultivars China
(14.28%) and Surahi (13.73%). Mahajan and Dhillon (2000) recorded 12.80 per cent of total
sugars in Seedless Late which was followed by Calcuttia and Dehradun cultivar of litchi. Rai
9
et al. (2002) recorded that the percent total sugar content was maximum in Dehra Rose
(16.80%) comapared to Kasba and China litchi cultivar.Mahajan and Dhillon (2000) recorded
maximum (20 mg/100g) ascorbic acid content in Rose Scented, whereas, it was least in
Seedless Late and Purbi cultivar of litchi. Singh et al. (2010) evaluated fourteen different
cultivars for yield and physico-chemical quality of fruits. The result showed that Kasba,
Bedana and Late Bedana exhibited desired fruit yield and quality characteristics compared to
Shahi, China and Rose Scented.
2.6
FRUIT CRACKING
Chauhan et al. (2008) conducted a trial on seven different cultivars of litchi namely,
Calcuttia, Muzaffarpur, Maclein, Early Large Red, Rose Scented, Dehradun and Seedless
Late. Early Large Red was the most suitable variety in terms of regular fruit bearing, yield,
and with least incidence of fruit cracking.
2.7
LEAF NUTRIENT CONTENT
Sanyal and Mitra (1990) reported that seasonal fluctuation of macronutrient nutrient
content of leaf of litchi cv. Bombai. They found the nutrient concentration ranged between
1.40-2.31% N, 0.22-0.37% P and 1.64% K. In contrary, Koen et al. (1982) recommended
nutrient norms for macronutrients as 1.26-1.46% N, 0.15-0.20% P and 0.90-1.06% K under
south African agro-climatic conditions. Hundal and Arora (1993) studied the leaf nutrient
status of litchi orchards in sub-montaneous area of Punjab. The study proposed that leaf
nutrient ranged between 10.0-19.0 mg N/g, 1.4-2.9 mg P/g, 3.9-13 mg K/g, 3.2-11.3 mg Ca/g,
2.0-5.8 mg Mg/g, 12.3-54.7 ug Zn/g, 4.7-19.9 ug Cu/g 85.7-397.3 ug Fe/g,8.4-57.1 ug Mn/g
and 15.9-66 ug B/g. Kotur and Singh (1993) studied the leaf nutrient status of six year old
litchi trees in September flush at 30 days interval. The study revealed that increasing leaf age
was directly related to decreased in the leaf content of N (1.91-1.59%), P (0.12-0.08%), K
(0.81-0.56), Zn (20-15 ppm ) and Cu (20-14 ppm), whereas, in contrast to Ca (2.07-3.17%),
Mg (0.26-0.60%), Fe (138-252 ppm), Mn (76-192 ppm) and B (9.2-20.4 ppm), an inverse
relationship was observed. Kunwar and Singh (1993) conducted a nutrient survey in litchi
orchards in Doon valley of Garwal hills of Uttaranchal. In his findings, the cultivar Rose
Scented exhibited a nutrient ranges as 0.93-2.11% N, 0.03-0.22% P ,0.55-1.30% K, 0.400.95% Ca and 0.24-60% Mg content of leaf.
Chen (1997) studied seasonal changes in leaf nutrient content during flowering to fruit
development. He reported that leaf nutrient content for different elements varied from 1.4710
1.79% N, 0.11-0.19% P, 0.89-1.77% K, 0.76-1.12% Ca, 0.24-0.47% Mg,10-12 ppm Fe, 2030 ppm Mn, 2.0-2.8 ppm Zn, 1.5-2.5 ppm Cu and 4.0-6.0 ppm B. Joon et al. (1997)
conducted a nutrient survey in litchi orchards in agroclimatic conditions of Haryana and
observed that leaf N content ranged between 1.36-2.38%, leaf P (0.19-0.31%), leaf K (0.5950.965%), leaf Ca (0.20-2.85%) and leaf Mg (0.07-0.40%). Chen et al. (1998) studied N and K
fertilizers on litchi and observed that the optimum N and P content in older leaves varied
between 1.60 and 1.75, 0.25 and 0.95 per cent, respectively. In central Taiwan agro-climatic
conditions, Huang et al. (1998) studied that nutrient content in leaf of litchi cultivar Haak Yip
during anthesis varied from 1.60-1.90% N, 0.12-0.27% P, 0.60-1.00% Ca ,0.30-0.50% Mg,
50-100 mg/kg Fe, 100-250 mg /kg Mg, 10-25 mg /kg Cu, 15- 30 mg /kg Zn and 25- 60 mg
/kg B. Ather and Kumar (1999) studied the effect of cultivar on leaf nutrient content of litchi
cv. Rose scented. The average nutrient content varied from 1.85-1.41% for N, 0.32% to 0.23
% for P, 0.88 to 0.78% for K, 0.57 to 0.74% for Ca and 0.25 to 0.35% for Mg.Rai et al.(2002)
studied the variations in the nutrient composition of macronutrients namely, nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium content of litchi and observed that leaf nutrient content varied
from 1.10 to 1.55 % for N 0.17 to 0.29% for P and 0.69 to 1.28 % for K. Babita et al. (2010)
found varietal difference in nutrient composition of leaf in litchi trees. The study revealed
that leaves of 16 years old healthy trees of fourteen different cultivars during the month of
March (for September flush) from third pair of leaflets, on non-fruit bearing branches at midheight from all directions. Different cultivars of litchi significantly influenced leaf N (1.42–
1.86%), leaf P (0.07-0.13%) and leaf K (0.56–0.83) content. Leaf N content was highest in
the cultivar Kasba (1.86%), whereas, it was lowest in Longia (1.42%). Similarly, leaf P
content was highest in cv. Shahi (0.13%), Rose Scented (0.13%), Kasba (0.07%) and Bedana
(0.07%). Leaf K content was highest in Dehrarose (0.83%) and the lowest in Kasba (0.56%).
Kumari et al. (2015) studied temporal variations for N, P, K content of leaf which was
further correlated with productivity of litchi trees. The leaf samples collected from
established orchard were analysed for N, P, K content. Leaf concentration of N, P and K
varied from 1.08-1.20, 0.081-0.109 and 0.690-0.786 per cent, respectively. However, mean
nutrient content was 1.14, 0.095 and 0.73 per cent for leaf N, P and K, respectively. The
study also inferred that maximum N content was observed in second pair of leaves,
whereas,in the first pair of leaves, P and K were found maximum. Leaf sampling of second
and fourth pair in February-April and or September-November months was most suitable
time in for establishing nutrient ranges. Rai et al. (2002) studied the leaf nutrient and fruit
11
yield of China litchi. Leaf nutrient composition varied from 1.10-1.55% N, 0.17-0.29% for P
and 0.69-1.28% for K. Moreover, the quadratic relationship between leaf nutrient
compositions and yield of litchi was established which also involved N, P and K content
described 75-80 per cent variations in yield of litchi.Yogeshwari et al. (2016) quantified
nutrient content at different growth stages of litchi and showed highest N (1.51%) and Mn
(31.83 ppm) content the cultivar Dehra Rose, while, leaf Fe was highest in Ajhauli (159.8
ppm). Leaf K content was registered maximum in Ajhauli and Shahi (0.96%). Leaf nitrogen
(1.62%), in general, was highest during fruit initiation and decreased with the fruit growth
and development stage. Maximum concentration of leaf K (1.05%), leaf Fe (286.92 ppm) and
leaf Mn (41.2 ppm) was observed during stone hardening stage but has decreased in later
stages. Kumari (2009) investigated the nutrient content of leaf and found that the
concentration of N, P and K varied from 1.08-1.20, 0.081-0.109 and 0.690-0.786 per cent,
respectively, with mean value of 1.14, 0.095 and 0.738 per cent, respectively. Highest
concentration of N was observed for the second pair of leaves whereas for P and K was first
pair of leaves.
2.8
SOIL PROPERTIES
According to Kunwar and Singh (1993), litchi orchards grown under agro-climatic
conditions of Doon valley of Garhwal hill exhibited neutral to alkaline pH (7.10-8.20) and
organic carbon (1.73%), whereas, available N, P and K concentrations recorded were 396.70,
25.6 and 258.8 kg/ha, respectively, which fall under medium to high fertility range (Muhr et
al. 1965). Hundal and Arora (1993) observed that soils of the litchi orchard of Punjab were
sandy loam in texture, neutral to alkaline in pH (7.0-8.10), electrical conductivity (0.11-0.36
dS/m). However, organic carbon varied from 0.25 to 0.78 per cent with a mean value of 0.47
percent was recorded. Singh et al. (2015) studied soil nutrient status of litchi orchard of
Dehradun and Calcuttia variety under sub-mountane zone of punjab. In Dehradun variety,
pH ranged from 6.7 to 7.9, EC ranged from 0.16 to 0.35 dS/m, organic carbon 0.12 to 0.26,
nitrogen varied from 168 to 291.2 kg/ha, phosphorus 4.4 to 19.8 kg/ha and potassium 94.1 to
232.6 kg/ha at the depth of 15-30 cm. Observations recorded with respect to Calcuttia variety
reveled that pH ranged from 6.4 to 7.6, EC ranged from 0.10 to 0.34 dS/m, organic carbon
(0.17-0.24%), available N varied from 190.4 to 268.8 kg/ha, P (5.4 to 19.3 kg/ha) and K (88.3
to 256.1 kg/ha) at the depth of 15-30 cm.
12
Joon et al. (1997) conducted a survey on litchi orchards of the north-eastern Haryana
agro-climatic conditions. During the investigation, they found that the organic carbon and
available N content were low in about 47 and 73 per cent of the orchard plantation,
respectively. Moreover, thirteen per cent of orchard were deficient in P content. Available K
content was recorded in medium to high fertility class with corresponding values of N, P and
K as 112-284 kg/ha, 7-34 kg/ha and 170-345 kg/ha. Savita (2015) analyzed various chemical
characteristics of soil and recorded that available N, P and K in soils ranged from 134.8 to
376.3, 10.9 to 123.6 and 34.7-285.6 kg/ha. Similarly, DTPA extractable Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu
content were ranged from 5.55-171.2 mg/ kg, 2.38-87.4 mg/ kg, 0.20-14.9 mg/ kg and 0.334.24 mg/ kg, respectively. Savita (2015) analyzed soil properties and extractable soil
nutrients. The contents of N, P and K in soils ranged from 134.8 to 376.3, 10.9 to 123.6 and
34.7-285.6. Kumari (2009) investigated that soil N, P and K varied from 194 to 269 kg /ha,
20 to 85 kg/ha and 325 to 515 kg/ha, respectively, in litchi trees at full canopy distance, with
mean value of 232 kg/ ha, 53 kg/ ha and 420 kg/ ha, respectively.
13
Chapter-3
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The present study entitled “Evaluation of Some Litchi Cultivars under Shiwalik
Foothills of Himachal Pradesh” was conducted during the cropping season of 2019-20. The
detail of the material and methodologies employed during the investigation has been
described under the following heads:
3.1
GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES
The studies were carried out at Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station
of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Dhaulakuan, Sirmour, Himachal
Pradesh. The experimental site is located at 35.5o North latitude and 77.5o East longitudes at
an elevation of 468 meters above mean sea level. The climate was typically sub-tropical. The
winters were cool and the summers were very hot. Maximum mean temperature was 39.5oC,
while, the minimum mean temperature was 17.3oC during the growth period. The normal
annual rainfall was 1100 mm, which was unevenly distributed. July and August are rainy
months. Rest 10 per cent of the annual rainfall occurs in the non-monsoon months in the
wake of western disturbances and thunder storms. The south-west monsoon contributed 90
per cent in June and withdrawn in middle of the month of September. Frost was experienced
occasionally. Fog is regularly casted in the months of December and January. Cooler nights
and fairly warmer days enriched by deep sandy loam soil rich in humus have provided
novelty to the crop under Shiwalik foothills of Himalaya.
3.2
EXPERIMENTAL DETAILS
3.2.1 Plant material
Full bearing trees of five litchi cultivars viz., Early Large Red, Dehradun, Calcuttia,
Rose Scented and Seedless Late with respect to cropping behavior for agro-morphometric
traits, flowering, fruit yield and quality characteristics. Trees were uniform in growth (20
years age group), vigour and productivity (Plate1). The trees were transplanted in north-south
row orientation, spaced at 10 m x 10 m apart. The planting spacing resulted into a tree density
of 100 trees per ha. All sampled trees were uniform sized, without any visible symptoms of
disease or pest infestation at the time of the commencing of the trial. Trees were also
managed as commercial crops following standard package of practices with respect to
irrigation scheduling, nutrient and pest management (Menzel and Simpson 1987; Menzel et
al., 1988a).
3.2.2 The edaphic conditions
The experimental soil was sandy clay loam in texture towards neutral soil reaction
(pH 5.81) 1:2 soil water suspension (Jackson, 1973), 0.44 d/Sm electrical conductivity, 0.51%
organic carbon (Walkey and Black, 1934), alkaline KMnO4 extractable-N (241.2 kg/ha),
available NaHCO3-extractable P (29.1 kg/ha) and available NH4OAC-K (92.67 kg/ha).
Diethylene-triamine-penta-acetic acid (DTPA)-extractable micronutrient cations namely, zinc
(Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) were 1.24, 36.3, 49.4 and 1.67 ppm,
respectively.
3.3
OBSERVATION RECORDED
3.3.1 Vegetative Growth Characteristics
3.3.1.1 Plant height
Plant height was recorded by placing a measuring tape 10 cm above the graft union of
trunk near the base to the top of the plant was measured in meter (m).
3.3.1.2 Trunk girth
The trunk circumference was measured 15 cm above the graft union with the help of a
measuring tape. The values thus obtained were used to work out yield efficiency.
3.3.1.3 Shoot growth
Five uniform and healthy shoots from the current season’s growth in all the four
direction were selected randomly for measuring shoot growth at monthly intervals and the
values were expressed in centimeter (cm).
3.3.1.4 Tree spread
The tree spread was measured in two directions (east-west and north-south) with once
before the commencement of the experiment and again after the end of growing season with
the help of measuring tape at the point where the canopy spread was maximum results were
expressed in meter (m).
15
Plate 1. Overview of litchi orchard
3.3.2 Generative Traits
3.3.2.1 Trunk cross–sectional area
Trunk cross–sectional area (TCSA) was calculated according to the method suggested
by Westwood (1978) using formula, TCSA= πr2, where, r radius of the trunk.
3.3.2.2 Tree canopy volume
Total above ground volume of each tree was calculated from height and spread
method as suggested by Westwood (1978) as given below:
i)
For the trees which were taller than its width
ii)
4
Tree volume = ----- π ab2
3
For the trees which were wider than its height
4
Tree volume = ------ π a2b
3
Where, π = 3.1428, a = ½ of length of major axis,
b = ½ of length of minor axis. The tree
canopy volume was worked out and was expressed as cubic meter (m3).
3.3.2.3 Canopy area
Canopy area (CA) was measured according to Westwood (1978) by taking average of
canopy diameter using formula, CA = canopy diameter/2 = radius =
, where, r = radius
2
and expressed as square meter (m ).
3.3.2.4 Leaf area
A representative sample size of fifty fully expanded leaves was randomly selected at
the time of harvest (May) from each experimental tree. Leaf area (LA) was recorded with
portable laser leaf area meter and the values were expressed in square centimeter (cm2).
3.4
FLOWERING PARAMETERS
3.4.1 Initiation of flowering
After panicle emergence, a regular visit of orchard was for observation on bud burst
and the opening of first flower was recorded.
16
3.4.2 Duration of flowering
The time between the dates of initiation of flowering to the end of date of flowering
was considered as time and duration of flowering. Subsequently, the period (days) from full
bloom to harvest were also calculated.
3.4.3 Length of panicle
Five branches of equal length were randomly selected and tagged for counting
number of flower buds on the flowering shoots. The panicles emerged from current season’s
growth were also selected in all the four direction for measuring length of flowering shoot
from the point where flower buds started to emerge, and the values were expressed in
centimeter(cm).
3.5
YIELD RELATED PARAMETERS
3.5.1 Fruit set
To record observation on fruit set, the representative sample size of five fruiting
branches on all the four direction of the tree were selected suggested by Westwood (1978) as
per the formula:
Fruit set % =
x 100
3.5.2 Fruit drop
Fruit drop was calculated by subtracting the total number of fruits retained from total
fruit set as per the formula:
Fruit drop (%) =
x 100
3.5.3 Fruit yield
Fruit yield in kilograms per tree (kg/tree) was recorded at the time of harvest by
weighing the total fruits retained in selected fruiting branch.
3.5.4 Yield efficiency
Yield efficiency was worked out with the help of a ready reckoned, developed by
Westwood (1978). The values obtained were expressed as kg/cm2 of TCSA, kg/m3 of TCV,
kg/cm2 of CA and kg/cm2 of leaf area.
17
3.6
FRUIT QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS
3.6.1 Physical
3.6.1.1 Fruit dimension
A representative sample size of twenty randomly selected fruits was measured for
talking observation on length and breadth of fruit with the help of digital vernier caliper.
Average length and breadth of fruit samples were calculated and the values were expressed as
millimeters (mm).
3.6.1.2 Fruit weight
Twenty randomly selected fruits were weighed on a top-pan electronic balance.
Subsequently, average fruit weight was calculated and expressed in grams (g).
3.6.1.3 Specific gravity
Specific gravity of fruits was recorded by measuring weight in air and in water using
the formula:
Specific gravity =
x 100
3.6.1.4 Fruit colour
The skin colour of ripen fruits were closely observed with naked eye at the time of
maturity assessment of different cultivars by comparing with the chart of minimal descriptor
of litchi by NBPGR, New Delhi.
3.6.1.5 Seed colour
Seed colour was recorded on mature fruit as light brown, brown, dark brown and
others by comparing with the chart of minimal descriptor of litchi by NBPGER, New Delhi.
3.6.1.6 Stone weight
After peeling the fruit aril, the stone (seed) were separated. The weight of stone on an
electronic balance was taken and the average weight of stone was worked out in gram (g).
3.6.1.7 Weight of aril
Ten randomly selected fruit samples from each cultivar were taken for the fresh
weight of aril by removing the skin and stone. Subsequently, the weight of pulp was recorded
with the help of an electronic balance and expressed in gram (g).
18
3.6.1.8 Pulp: stone ratio
Fresh fruits were weighed and the stones from these fruit samples were removed.
Washed under the tap water, then dried to remove excess of water and finally weighted pulp/
stone ratio was worked out by dividing the average weight of fruit by the weight of stone.
3.6.2 Biochemical
A representative samples size of twenty matured fruits was selected randomly from
tree to determine the biochemical constituents of the samples viz., total soluble solids,
titratable acidity and total sugars were estimated using standard procedure (AOAC, 1980).
3.6.2.1 Total soluble solids
Total soluble solids (TSS) content in fruit samples were determined with Erma Hand
Refrectometer (0-320 Brix) by putting a drop of fruit juice squeezed (at full ripe stage) on its
prism. The refrectometer was calibrated with distilled water before use. After each test, the
prism was cleaned with distilled water and wiped with a soft tissue. Ten readings from each
sample were averaged and the results were expressed as 0Brix.
3.6.2.2 Titratable acidity
Twenty five gram of fruit pulp was taken homogenized thoroughly with distilled
water in an electric blender and volume was made to 250 ml. The contents were then filtered
through Whatman No. 1 filter paper. 10 ml of the extract was titrated against 0.1 N NaOH
solution using phenolphthalein as an indicator. The appearance of light pink colour indicated
the end point. The results were expressed as per cent of fresh weight of the fruit pulp. The
remaining extract was kept for estimation of sugars. Excess lead acetate and contents were
again filtered. The volume was made to 250 ml with distilled water. Out of this solution, 50
ml was kept for determining total sugars. The titratable acidity was calculated by using the
following formula:
Titratable acidity (%) =
x 100
T
=
Titre value
N
=
Normality of NaOH
V1
=
Volume made
E
=
Equivalent weight of acid
V2
=
Volume of extract
W
=
weight of sample (g)
19
3.6.2.3 Reducing sugars
To determine reducing sugars, mixture containing 5 ml each of Fehling A and B
solutions was titrated against the remaining unhydrolyzed pulps solution using methylene
blue as an indicator. The titration was carried till the colour of the solution become brick red
and the results were expressed as per cent of reducing sugars (A.O.A.C, 1980).
3.6.2.4 Total sugars
The remaining 50 ml of the solution was deceased and the clarified solution was
hydrolyzed by adding few drops of concentrated HCl and the contents were allowed to stand
for overnight (Ranganna, 1995). Excess of HCl was then neutralized with saturated NaOH
solution. The total sugar was estimated by titration of the boiling mixture containing 5 ml
each of Fehling A and B solution against hydrolyzed pulp solution using methylene blue as
an indicator till the appearance of brick red colour as the end point. The values were
expressed in per cent on fresh pulp weight basis as per formula:
.
Total sugars (%) =
x 100
3.6.2.5 Non-reducing sugars
The non-reducing sugars were calculated by subtracting reducing sugar from total
sugars and multiplying the difference by a standard factor 0.95 (A.O.A.C., 1980). The results
were expressed as per cent of non-reducing sugars in the sample.
3.6.2.6 TSS: acidity
The ratio was obtained by dividing the corresponding value of total soluble solids to
the ascorbic acid content of the fruit juice.
3.6.2.7Ascorbic acid
The quantitative determination of ascorbic acid was done accordingly as per the
method given in A.O.A.C (1980).
Preparation of solution
One hundred grams of ascorbic acid (reference standard) was accurately weighted on
electronic balance and dissolved in 10 ml of metaphosphoric acid extraction solution. The
20
content was transferred to 100 ml volumetric flask and volume was made to 100 ml by
metaphosphoric acid solution. This solution then was diluted to 1 liter before using with
metaphosphoric acid solution so as to reduce the consumption of dye.
Indophenol standard solution
Fifty grams of 2, 6-dichlorophenol indophenol sodium salt was dissolved in 50 ml
distilled water in beaker. 42 mg of sodium bicarbonate was added to it. The contents were
shaken vigorously until when the 2, 6-dichlorphenol indophenol was dissolved, it was diluted
to 200 ml with distilled water, filtered and stored in dark coloured bottle in refrigerator.
Estimation
Twenty five grams of pulp was homogenized in metaphosphoric acid extraction
solution and the volume was made to 100 ml in volumetric flask. This solution was then
titrated against 2, 6-dichlorophenol indophenol dye. Appearance of light pink colour
indicated the end the amount of ascorbic acid in milligrams per grams (mg/100g) of juice was
calculated using formula:
Ascorbic acid (mg/100g) =
3.7
x 100
FRUIT CRACKING
Total number of fruits cracked was periodically counted and the fruit cracking was
calculated by total number of fruit cracked and total fruits retained by using the following
formula:
Fruit cracking (%) =
3.8
x 100
SOIL PROPERTIES
3.8.1 Collection of soil samples
Soil samples were collected from the drip line of the tree from 0-30 cm depth in
selected litchi trees per treatment per replication. The samples thus collected were
composited separately. Sample preparation for analysis was done according to standard
procedures (Piper, 1966). The sieved samples were then stored in cloth bags for further
analysis.
21
3.8.2 Chemical analysis
3.8.2.1 pH and Electrical conductivity (EC)
Soil pH and EC were determined in soil: water suspension (1:2.5) by following the
procedure as described by Jackson (1973).
3.8.2.2 Organic Carbon (OC)
It was estimated using Walkley and Black’s Rapid Titration Method as outlined by
Jackson (1973).
3.8.2.3 Available Nitrogen
The estimation of available N was done by Alkaline Potassium Permanganate Method
as suggested by Subbiah and Asija (1956).
3.8.2.4 Available Phosphorus
Available phosphorus in soil was determined by Stannous Chloride reduced
Ammonium Molybedate Method using Olsen’s extractant (Olsen et al., 1954), and
determined on Spectronic-20 at 660 nm wavelength.
3.8.2.5 Available Potassium
Exchangeable K was extracted with neutral normal ammonium acetate as per the
procedure given by Merwin and Peach (1951) and was estimated on Flame Photometer.
3.8.2.6 DTPA micronutrients
DTPA-extractable soil micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn) buffered at pH 7.3 ± 0.05
were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Lindsay and Norvell, 1978).
3.9
LEAF ANALYSIS
Each foliage sample was made up of 50 leaves taken during May-June after harvest
(after fruit picking) from middle of the shoot. Newly matured leaves from the autumn shoots
(second and third leaf pair of second compound leaves) were collected from all four
directions of canopy of the whole tree. The sampling of leaves and their preparation for
analysis was in accordance with the procedure recommended by Chapman (1964).
22
Digestion of leaf samples
The digestion of leaf samples (1 g) for estimation of total nitrogen was carried out in
concentrated H2SO4 in the presence of digestion mixture of different chemicals viz.,
Potassium sulphate (400 parts), Copper sulphate (20 parts), Mercuric oxide (3 parts) and
Selenium (1 part). For the estimation of P and K, the samples (0.5 g) were digested in diacid
mixture prepared by mixing HNO3 and HClO4 in the ratio of 4:1 by taking all relevant
precautions as suggested by Piper (1966).
3.9.1 Determination of nutrient elements
Total leaf nitrogen was determined by Micro-Kjeldhal’s method. Total phosphorus
was determined by Vanado-Molybdate-Phosphoric Yellow Colour Method (Jackson, 1973).
Five ml aliquat (digested) was pipetted out into 25 ml volumetric flask and 5 ml of
vanadomolybdate reagent was added. Then solution was diluted to 25 ml with distilled water
and allowed to develop colour for half an hour. After development of colour, absorbance was
recorded on Spectronic-20 at 470 nm wavelengths and a blank was run simultaneously to
adjust zero absorbance. Phosphorus content was the calculated from standard curve of
phosphorus and expressed in per cent on dry weight basis. Leaf K in the extract was
estimated on flame photometer and the values were expressed in per cent on dry weight basis.
3.9.2 Deviation from optimum percentage
Deviation from optimum percentage (DOP) index is the quantity and quality of each
nutrient in plants. DOP nutrient index and the respective blade nutrient concentration were
calculated as optimum (DOP=0), deficiency (DOP<0) or excess (DOP>0) according to
Montanes et al. (1991). DOP index based on leaf analysis is calculated as, DOP= {Cn/Co-1} x
100, where, Cn= foliar concentration of the tested nutrient, and Co= critical (reference)
optimum nutrient concentration. The C0 was taken from optimum values (Menzel et al.,
1992).
3.10
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
To compare the performance of different litchi cultivars for choosing appropriate
cultivar in Shiwalik foothills, the data were appropriately computed, tabulated and analyzed
by using MS-Excel and OPSTAT. The data obtained for Randomized Block Design were
subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) as procedures outlined by Gomez and Gomez
23
(1984). The calculated F-values were compared with tabulated F-value. When F-test was
significant, CD was then calculated to find out the comparative performance of different
litchi cultivars. The standard error and critical difference at 5 per cent level of significance
was calculated as follows:
SE (m) ±
=
SE (d) ±
=
CD0.05
=
SE (d) x t0.05 (r-1) (t-1) df
SE (m) ±
=
Standard error of mean
SE (d) ±
=
Standard error of differences
CD0.05
=
Critical difference at 5 per cent level of significance
where,
24
Chapter-4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The present investigation entitled “Evaluation of Some Litchi Cultivars under
Shiwalik Foothills of Himachal Pradesh” was carried out during 2019-20 at Regional
Horticultural Research and Training Station of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and
Forestry in Dhaulakuan (Sirmour), Himachal Pradesh. The experimental results obtained
have been presented and discussed under the following heads and sub-heads:
4.1
Vegetative growth characteristics
4.2
Generative traits
4.3
Flowering parameters
4.4
Yield attributes
4.5
Fruit quality characteristics
4.6
Leaf nutrient content
4.7
Deviation from optimum percentage
4.1
VEGETATIVE GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS
The data regarding vegetative growth characteristics of litchi trees viz., plant height,
trunk girth, shoot growth and leaf area of different cultivars are presented in Table 1, Plate 23 and discussed below:
4.1.1 Tree habit
The data recorded on tree habit of different cultivars of litchi is presented in Table 1.
The cultivars namely, Early Large Red, Seedless and Rose Scented were upright in growth
habit, whereas, Dehradun and Calcuttia showed spreading type of growth habit.
4.1.2 Plant height
The perusal of the data indicated that among different cultivars of litchi, the plant
height varied from 4.8 to 6.8 m. The cultivar Dehradun exhibited maximum plant height (6.8
m) and was significantly higher compared to other litchi cultivars studied. Whereas, it was
minimum in Seedless Late (4.8 m) which was found statistically at par with Early Large Red
(5.13 m). The per cent increase in plant height was maximum in Dehradun (41.66%)
followed by Calcuttia (18.75 %), Rose Scented (16.66%) and Early Large Red (6.25%) over
Seedless Late.
Table 1. Vegetative growth characteristics of some litchi cultivars
Cultivar
Tree habit Plant
height
(m)
Early Large Red Upright
Trunk
girth
(cm)
Shoot
growth
(cm)
5.1
50.61
36.83
Dehradun
Spreading
6.8
65.68
53.72
Calcuttia
Spreading
5.7
57.63
45.10
Seedless Late
Upright
4.8
54.66
35.96
Rose Scented
Upright
5.6
57.33
42.36
0.70
5.06
NS
C.D0.05
Tree
vigour
Semivigorous
Vigorous
Semivigorous
SemiDwarf
Semivigorous
Canopy diameter (m)
East-West North-South
Leaf area
(cm2)
5.70
6.50
37.67
8.63
9.66
46.29
5.00
5.56
43.54
6.76
7.40
44.59
5.90
9.56
41.97
0.79
0.99
NS
NS, non-significant
4.1.3 Trunk girth
The data revealed that there was a significant difference of mean values in trunk girth
of litchi cultivars. Among different litchi cultivars, trunk girth ranged between 50.61 and
65.68 cm. Maximum trunk girth was observed in Dehradun (65.68 cm) followed by Calcuttia
(57.63 cm) and Rose Scented (57.33 cm). Whereas, the minimum of trunk girth was observed
in Early Large Red (50.61 cm), which was statistically at par with Seedless Late (50.66 cm).
Further, Dehradun also recorded significant increase of 29.77 per cent in trunk girth followed
by Calcuttia (13.87%), Rose Scented (13.27%) and Seedless Late (8.00%) over Early Large
Red.
4.1.4 Canopy diameter
The data regarding canopy diameter (east-west and north-south) had obtained
significant value after data analysis. The tree spread in east to west direction varied from 5.00
m to 8.63 m and 5.56 to 9.66 m in north-south direction. Maximum tree spread was recorded
in Dehradun (8.63, 9.66 m) followed by Rose Scented (7.03, 9.66 m), whereas, it was
minimum in Calcuttia (5.00, 5.56 m) with corresponding values in east-west and north-south
direction which was found statistically at par with Early Large Red (5.40 m, 6.50 m). Further,
maximum percentage of tree spread was recorded in Dehradun variety (72.6%) followed by
Seedless Late (35.2%), Rose Scented (18.00%) and Early Large Red (14.00%) increased
26
Early Large Red
Seedless Late
Plate 2. Growth habit of litchi cultivars-I
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 3. Growth habit of litchi cultivars-II
compared to Calcuttia (Table 1). However, north-south spread (73.74%) was also observed in
Dehradun variety followed by Rose Scented (71.94%), Seedless Late ( 33.09%), and Early
Large Red (16.90%) increased over Calcuttia.
4.1.5 Shoot Growth
Shoot growth of litchi trees was observed to vary among different cultivars. The data
showed that shoot growth varied from 35.96 cm to 53 .72 cm in different cultivars. Shoot
growth did not significantly differ from one another. Maximum shoot growth (53.72 cm) was
recorded in Dehradun variety followed by Calcuttia (45.10 cm), Rose Scented (42.36 cm) and
Early Large Red (36.83 cm), whereas, the cultivar, Seedless Late exhibited the minimum
(35.96 cm) value of shoot growth measured.
4.1.6 Tree vigour
The data depicted in Table 1 on tree vigour of different litchi showed that the cultivar,
Seedless Late was categorized as semi-dwarf, while, all others cultivars namely, Early Large
Red, and Rose Scented are semi vigorous to vigorous (Dehradun) in tree vigour.
4.1.7 Leaf area
The data on leaf area showed that there is no significant mean difference among litchi
cultivars under study. The leaf area ranged between 37.67 cm2 and 46.29. Maximum leaf area
(46.29 cm2) was recorded in Dehradun. Whereas, the minimum (37.67 cm 2) was recorded in
the variety Early Large Red.
4.2
GENERATIVE TRAITS
The data regarding generative measurements viz., trunk cross-sectional area, tree
canopy volume and canopy volume of different litchi cultivars were generally correlated. The
data for growth dynamic of canopy parameters for period until 20th cropping season (2019)
are presented in Table 2 and discussed below:
4.2.1 Trunk cross-sectional area
Different litchi cultivars varied significantly for truck cross-sectional area during the
course of investigations. It is evident from the data that trunk cross-sectional area of various
litchi cultivars ranged between 205.76 and 424.96 cm2. Maximum trunk cross-sectional area
27
(424.96 cm2) was recorded in Dehradun followed by Early Large Red (265.06 cm2), while,
the minimum trunk cross-sectional area (205.76 cm2) was observed in Seedless Late. The
average trunk cross-sectional area recorded in Dehradun variety was significantly higher than
litchi cultivars.
Table 2. Generative traits of some litchi cultivars in Shiwalik foothills
TCSA (cm2)
265.06
TCV (m3)
141.38
CA (m2)
33.73
Dehradun
424.96
496.01
17.87
Calcutta
261.90
105.56
23.47
Seedless Late
205.76
222.77
20.40
Rose Scented
208.96
234.91
22.36
C.D0.05
89.04
70.56
NS
Cultivar
Early Large Red
TCSA, Trunk cross-sectional area; TCV, Tree canopy volume; CA, Canopy area; NS, non-significant
4.2.2 Tree canopy volume
The data pertaining to canopy volume was found significantly different for some litchi
cultivars during the year of study. The average tree canopy volume was highest in Dehradun
cultivar (496.01 cm3), followed by Rose Scented (234.96 cm3) and Seedless Late (222.77
cm3). However, minimum tree canopy volume (105.56 cm3) was recorded in Calcuttia. The
average tree volume recorded in Dehradun variety was significantly higher than litchi
cultivars, whereas, the cultivars namely, Seedless Late and Rose Scented were statistically at
par with one another (Table 2). The average tree volume observed in Calcuttia was
significantly lower than all other cultivars studied.
4.2.3 Canopy area
The data presented in Table 2 showed that, the canopy area did not varied
significantly among the litchi cultivars. Maximum canopy area (33.73 m2) was recorded in
the cultivar Early Large Red followed by Calcuttia (23.47 m2) and Rose Scented (22.36 m2)
and the lowest canopy area (17.87 m2) was observed in Dehradun variety.
Among the various litchi cultivars studied, maximum height and canopy spread of the
plants was observed in Dehradun and Early Seedless, respectively. These results are also in
accordance with those of Yadav et al. (2010) and Chandola and Mishra (2015) who reported
28
similar variations in litchi cultivars grown in Pantanagar, Uttrakhand conditions. The
differences in observations on growth characteristics might be due to the genetic and climate
variations. The literature is confirmed that leaf size is a genetic character and could be varied
from cultivar to cultivar when crop plants are grown under similar edaphic and other
environmental conditions. Khurshid et al. (2004) studied the growth behaviour of a cultivar
and species which might have varied in a climate other than where it was originated.
Rai et al. (2001) observed genetic variation in thirteen litchi cultivars for various traits
including tree spread and tree canopy volume. Chandola and Mishra (2015) reported a
significant variations for generative traits (canopy diameter and trunk cross-sectional area) of
21 years old litchi trees of cultivars viz., Rose Scented, Calcuttia, Late Seedless, Early
Seedless, Longia, Kasba, Mandraji, McLean, Dehradun and Shahi grown in Uttrakhand
agro-climatic conditions. These results are in accordance to Dalal and Brar (2012) who also
reported an increased tree canopy volume and canopy area with increased trunk crosssectional area in kinnow mandarin. Earlier studies have indicated significant differences in
shoot growth and leaf area of the litchi cultivars (Thapa et al., 2014; Chandola and Mishra,
2015). However, in the present study, no significant differences were observed.
4.3
FLOWERING PARAMETERS
The data pertaining to date of bud burst, initiation of flowering, length of panicle,
days from full bloom to harvest and date of harvest of some litchi cultivars in Shiwalik
foothills have been presented in Table 3 and Plate 4-5.
4.3.1 Flower bud differentiation and bud burst
The flowering period varied among different cultivars and environmental condition.
In general, the flower bud differentiation in the cultivars started in the month of December
and completed in the first week of February. It is clearly indicated that the date of bud burst
of some litchi cultivars varied from 25.02.2019 to 05.03.2019. The earlier bud burst was
observed in the cultivar Early Large Red followed by Dehradun, Calcuttia and Rose Scented
variety, whereas, it was observed late in Seedless Late.
4.3.2 Initiation of flowering
Among different cultivars, the emergence of flower panicle started in January and is
continued up to first week of March. The initiation of flowering of litchi cultivars varied from
29
18.03.2019 (Early Large Red) to 28.03.2109 (Seedless Late). The earlier initiation of
flowering (20.03.2019) was observed in Early Large Red followed by Rose Scented.
Dehradun and Calcuttia variety observed initiation of flowering on same date, while, the
cultivar, Seedless Late observed late flowering (Table 3). The difference of initiation of
flowering from Early Large Red to Seedless Late variety was 12 days.
Table 3. Time, duration and other flowering characters of litchi cultivars
Date of
bud burst
Initiation of
flowering
Date of
full bloom
Length of
panicle
(cm)
DFBH
Date of
harvesting
Early Large Red 22.02.2019
16.03.2019
20.03.2019
34.16
53.33
15.05.2019
Dehradun
28.02.2019
27.03.2019
30.04.2019
30.33
59.00
24.05.2019
Calcuttia
28.02.2019
26.03.2019
31.03.2019
30.69
62.00
28.05.2019
Seedless Late
05.03.2019
28.03.2019
03.04.2019
26.00
64.33
31.05.2019
Rose Scented
28.02.2019
25.03.2019
31.03.2019
29.75
60.00
23.05.2019
3.20
5.21
Cultivar
C.D0.05
DFBH, Days from full bloom to harvest
4.3.3 Length of panicle
In general, litchi cultivars have shown that before floral bud initiation, the twig first
began to give out vegetative growth and then just at the terminal end of the vegetative shoot,
a reproductive bud in form of recemose panicle appeared. It is clearly observed from Table 3
that the panicle length was ranged between 26.00 and 34.16 cm. Maximum panicle length
(34.16 cm) was recorded in Early Large Red which was significant over other litchi cultivars.
However, the minimum panicle length (26.00 cm) was observed Seedless Late.
4.3.4 Days from full bloom to harvest
The data presented in Table 3 showed significant effect of litchi genotypes on days
from full bloom to harvest. Minimum days from full bloom to harvest (55.33 days) was
recorded in Early Large Red which was statistically at par with Dehradun (58.00 days) and
Rose Scented (60.00 days), while, it was maximum (66.33 days) in Seedless Late.
4.3.5 Date of harvesting
The data on the date of harvesting some litchi cultivars varied from 18.05.2019 (Early
Large Red) to 31.05.2019 (Seedless Late). The cultivar, Early Large Red was harvested
30
Early Large Red
Seedless Late
Plate 4. Flowering of litchi cultivars-I
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 5. Flowering of litchi cultivars-II
earlier than the other litchi cultivars followed by Dehradun, Rose Scented and Calcuttia. The
cultivar, Seedless Late however, was harvested on 31.05.2019.
In the present investigations, the observations recorded on flowering behaviour of
different litchi genotypes with respect to date of bud burst, initiation of flowering, panicle
length, days from full bloom to harvest and date of harvesting showed the variation among
the genotypes. The difference observed in terms of days required to attain full bloom stage
and different litchi cultivars might be attributed to the genetic differences and interactions of
genetic and environmental factors. The variation in length of panicles might be due to genetic
constitution of litchi genotypes and more specifically the physiological condition of the shoot
on which panicle is raised. The results of present study on flowering parameters are in
accordance with the findings of Brijwal et al. (2016) who reported early initiation of
flowering in Early Seedless and Rose Scented (21.87 days). Khurshid et al. (2004) who
reported maximum length of terminal panicle (34.2 cm) in Gola cultivar, while the minimum
(25.8 cm) in Bedana cultivar. Significant differences were recorded for panicle length in
different litchi cultivars by Kumar et al. (2016a) also who reported that maximum (25.5 cm)
panicle length in Saharanpur, while, the cultivar, Seedless Late observed the lowest (15.4 cm)
panicle length.
4.4
FRUITNG BEHAVIOUR
4.4.1 Fruit set
The results showed that the litchi cultivars exhibited large variations with respect to
fruit set under Shiwalik foothills (Table 4, Plate 6-7). Dehradun observed maximum fruit set
(56.71%) followed by Early Large Red (54.08%) which was found at par with the cultivars
Seedless Late (52.07%) and Calcuttia (53.19%). Fruit set however, the minimum was
recorded in the cultivar Rose Scented (40.70%).
4.4.2 Fruit drop
Among different litchi cultivars, Rose Scented (33.66%) recorded minimum fruit drop
followed by Early Large Red (35.06%). However, the maximum fruit drop was observed in
Dehradun (38.46%) which was found statistically at par with variety Seedless Late (37.35%).
31
Table 4. Fruiting set, fruit drop and fruit retention in some litchi cultivars
Cultivar
Fruit set (%)
Fruit drop (%)
Fruit retention (%)
Early Large Red
54.08
35.06
17.03
Dehradun
56.71
38.46
18.22
Calcuttia
53.19
36.51
16.76
Seedless Late
52.07
37.35
13.31
Rose Scented
48.70
33.66
14.45
C.D0.05
3.13
1.98
1.35
4.4.3 Fruit retention
The fruit retention of litchi cultivars ranged between 13.31 and 18.22 per cent).
Maximum fruit retention was noticed in cultivar Dehradun (18.22%) which was statistically
significant over the other litchi cultivars. However, minimum fruit retention was exhibited in
the cultivar Calcuttia (16.76%). Earlier literature is well documented on the remarkable
differences in initiation of fruit set among different varieties in litchi (Chadha and Rajpoot,
1969). The reports confirmed the present finding as revealed by various workers who also
reported variations (varying degree) in fruit set on tree cultivar and environmental condition
(Sanyal et al., 1996).
4.4.4 Fruit yield
A significant variation was observed in fruit yield for different cultivars of litchi
(Table 5). It is evident from the data that the cultivar Dehradun produced the highest yield
(70.40 kg/tree) followed by Early Large Red (62.66 kg/tree), Calcuttia (60.00 kg/tree) and
Rose Scented (52.03 kg/tree), whereas, the Seedless Late produced significantly lowest yield
of (49 kg/tree). The average fruit yield recorded in Dehradun was statistically at par with
Early Large Red but significantly higher than Calcuttia and Rose Scented varieties.
4.4.5 Yield efficiency
Yield efficiency refers to the amount of crop produced per unit area. In the present
study, the different genotypes of litchi respond to change in trunk cross sectional area, tree
canopy area, canopy area and leaf area and fruit yield to calculate yield efficiency of each
cultivar. Yield per trunk cross sectional area (TCSA) of some litchi cultivars had no
significant difference. The data indicate that the average yield efficiency value in Rose
32
Early Large Red
Seedless Late
Plate 6. Fruit set of litchi cultivars-I
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 7. Fruit set of litchi cultivars-II
Scented was highest (0.249 kg/cm2 of TCSA), followed by Seedless Late (0.238 kg/cm2
TCSA), Early Large Red (0.236 kg/cm2 TCSA), whereas, it was least in Dehradun (0.166
kg/cm2). Similarly, yield efficiency of litchi trees in terms of tree canopy volume (TCV) was
maximum in Calcuttia (0.568kg/m3 of TCV) followed by Early Large Red (0.443 kg/ m3 of
TCV) and Rose Scented (0.221kg/m3 of TCV). Dehradun variety however, was obtained the
minimum value of yield efficiency in terms of TCV (0.142 kg/m3 of TCV).
Table 5. Fruit yield and yield efficiency of some litchi cultivars
Yield efficiency
Y/ TCV
Y/CA
3
(kg/m )
(kg/m2 )
Cultivar
Fruit yield
(kg/tree)
Early Large Red
62.66
0.236
0.443
1.85
Y/ LA
(kg/cm2 )
1.66
Dehradun
70.40
0.166
0.142
3.94
1.52
Calcuttia
60.00
0.229
0.568
2.56
1.38
Seedless Late
49.00
0.238
0.220
2.40
1.10
Rose Scented
52.03
0.249
0.221
2.33
1.24
C.D0.05
2.84
NS
0.080
0.46
0.21
Y/ TCSA
(kg/cm2 )
TCSA, Trunk cross-sectional area; TCV, Tree canopy volume; CA, Canopy area; LA, Leaf area; NS,
non-significant
The trees of Dehradun variety exhibited the maximum yield efficiency value with
respect to canopy area (3.94 kg/m2 of CA) followed by Calcuttia (2.56 kg/m3 of CA). The
average yield efficiency of Dehradun was significantly higher than all other cultivars (Table
5). Likewise, fruit yield per leaf area had a significant difference in litchi cultivars. Maximum
yield efficiency per leaf area was recorded with Early Large Red and Dehradun (1.66 kg/cm 2
of LA) followed by Dehradun (1.52 kg/cm2 of LA), while, the cultivar Seedless Late
recorded the minimum yield efficiency per unit of leaf area (1.10 kg/cm2 of LA).
In the present study, fruit yield was found significant among litchi cultivars which
might be due to difference in uptake of nutrients by plants from soil, climate effect and
genetic variance. The results are in accordance to Singh et al. (2012) and Lal and Kumar
(1997) who observed that fruit yield depends on many other factors such as nutrition,
management practices, climate, tree aspect and locality of tree (Singh et al., 2012). Moreover,
the differences in yield among different cultivars might be to the difference in cultivars, agroclimatic conditions, flowering and fruiting behaviour, number of panicles borne on the tree
33
by each variety and age of the tree (Lal and Kumar, 1997; Roy and Mishra, 1982). In another
study conducted by Huang et al. (1992) showed a strong correlation between fruit yield of the
tree and crown and canopy.
4.5
FRUIT QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS
The observations recorded on the fruit quality characteristics of litchi cultivars are
given in Table 6-8.
4.5.1 Physical
4.5.1.1 Fruit dimension
The data recorded showed a remarkable variations among different litchi cultivars in
respect of fruit length which varied from 29.88 to 35.54 mm. Dehradun variety recorded the
maximum fruit length (35.54 mm) which was at par with Early Large Red (35.07 mm) and
Calcuttia (34.88 mm). However, the lowest was observed in Seedless Late (29.88 mm).
Similarly, fruit breadth also significantly varied from 26.63 to 31.16 mm of different
genotypes in present study (Table 6, Plate 8-11). Maximum fruit breadth of 29.16 mm was
recorded in Dehradun followed by Early Large Red (28.63 mm), Seedless Late (28.57 mm)
and Rose Scented (28.42 mm). However, the lowest was observed in Calcuttia (26.34 mm).
4.5.1.2 Fruit weight
It is evident from the data that among litchi cultivars, the fruit weight varied from
17.32 to 21.51 g. Maximum average fruit weight was observed in Early Large Red (21.51 g)
followed by Calcuttia (20.18 g), Seedless late (19.18 g) and Dehradun (17.38 g). The
minimum however, was observed in Rose Scented (17.32 g). The average fruit weight
recorded in Early Large Red was significantly higher than others cultivars, whereas, the
cultivar Calcuttia was statistically at par with Seedless Late.
4.5.1.3 Peel weight
The data pertaining to peel weight has been depicted in Table 6. The data clearly
showed a highly significant variation of peel weight among different litchi cultivars studied
(Table 6). Maximum peel weight of fruits (1.48 g) was recorded in Early Large Red followed
by Calcuttia (1.40 g), Seedless Late (1.35 g) and Rose scented (1.32 g). Although, Dehradun
exhibited the minimum peel weight (1.27 g).
34
Early Large Red
Seedless Late
Plate 8. Fruit development of some litchi cultivars-I
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 9. Fruit development of some litchi cultivars-II
Early Large Red
Seedless Late
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 10. Mature fruits of litchi cultivars
Seedless Late
Early Large Red
Dehradun
Rose Scented
Calcuttia
Plate 11. Stones of litchi cultivars
Table 6. Physical fruit characteristics of litchi cultivars
Cultivar
Early Large Red
Fruit dimension
(mm)
Length
Breadth
35.07
28.63
Fruit
weight
(g)
20.18
Peel
weight
(g)
1.48
Specific
gravity
(g/cc)
0.97
Shape
Index
1.22
Dehradun
35.54
29.16
21.51
1.27
0.96
1.22
Calcuttia
34.88
26.34
19.18
1.40
0.99
1.32
Seedless Late
29.88
28.57
17.38
1.35
1.00
1.05
Rose Scented
33.85
28.42
17.32
1.32
0.95
1.19
C.D0.05
2.17
2.62
0.97
0.06
NS
NS
NS, non-significant
4.5.1.4 Specific gravity
Data regarding specific gravity had no significant variations among the different litchi
cultivars. The data recorded however, ranged from 0.95 to 1.00 (g/cc) in different litchi
cultivars.
4.5.1.5 Shape index
Data regarding the shape index of fruits showed non-significant difference among the
different litchi cultivars. In the present study, among the different genotypes of litchi, the
shape index varied between 1.05 (Seedless Late) to 1.32 (Calcuttia).
4.5.1.6 Stone weight
The stone weight of litchi cultivars varied from 1.92 to 3.54 g. Calcuttia had the
maximum stone weight (3.54 g) which was significantly higher than all other litchi cultivars
studied (Plate 11). Other cultivars viz., Early Large Red, Dehradun and Rose Scented
recorded the corresponding values 3.45, 2.53 and 2.38 g, while, the lowest stone weight was
observed in Seedless Late (1.92 g).
4.5.1.7 Fresh weight of aril
The data presented in Table 7 revealed that fresh weight of aril of litchi cultivars
varied from 13.62 to 17.71 g. Dehradun variety was recorded (17.71 g) followed by Early
Large Red (15.25 g), Calcuttia (14.24 g) and Seedless Late (14.11 g), whereas, the lowest
stone weight was observed in Rose Scented (13.62 g).
35
Table 7. Stone weight, aril, pulp:stone ratio and fruit cracking in some litchi cultivars
Cultivar
Stone
Fresh
weight weight of
(g)
aril (g)
Pulp:
Stone
Fruit
cracking
(%)
Seed colour
Fruit colour
Early Large Red
3.45
15.25
4.42
10.50
Grey Orange
Group 166-A
Red Group
47-A
Dehradun
2.53
17.71
7.00
14.04
Grey Orange
Group 177-A
Red Group
48-A
Calcuttia
3.54
14.24
4.02
17.06
Grey Orange
Group 166-A
Red Group
47-B
Seedless Late
1.92
14.11
7.35
4.46
Grey Orange
Group 176-A
Red Group
46-C
Rose Scented
2.38
13.62
5.72
9.86
Grey Orange
Group 176-A
Red Group
50-B
C.D0.05
0.49
1.48
1.63
1.03
4.5.1.8 Pulp: stone ratio
The Pulp: stone ratio in fruit samples of litchi cultivars varied from 4.02 to 7.35.
Maximum Pulp: stone ratio was recorded in Seedless Late variety (7.35) followed by
Dehradun (7.00), Rose Scented (5.72) and Early Large Red (4.42) cultivar, whereas, it was
least in the cultivar Calcuttia (4.02).
4.5.1.9 Fruit cracking
The data recorded on fruit cracking was highly significant in some litchi genotypes
studied. Maximum fruit cracking (17.06%) was recorded in Seedless Late followed by the
cultivar Dehradun (14.04%), Calcuttia (10.50%) and Rose Scented (9.86%). However, it was
least in Early Large Red (4.46%).
4.5.1.10 Seed colour
The data pertaining to seed colour of five litchi cultivars showed in Table 8 which
represents that the colour of seed of these varieties did not much differ from each other
(Table 7). The varieties namely, Early Large Red and Calcuttia exhibited greyed orange
Group 166-A seed colour, whereas, other cultivars viz., Seedless Late and Rose Scented was
placed in recorded grey orange Group 176-A category (chocolate colour).
36
4.5.1.11 Fruit colour
Among different litchi cultivars, none of the considerable variation with respect to
fruit colour was observed. However, Early Large Red (crimson to carmine red)
and
Dehradun (rose pink) placed in Red Group 48-A category followed by Calcuttia and Rose
Scented in Red Group 47-B (purple rose colour), whereas, Seedless Late was found in Red
Group 46-C category (bright brick-red colour).
In the present investigation, the better performance and variations of litchi cultivars in
terms of physical fruit quality characteristics (fruit dimension and weight of fruits) was
observed. These observations are in line with the findings of Singh et al. (1999) who
emphasized that fruit size is a genetic characteristic of the cultivars. Khurshid et al. (2004)
reported that the fruit weight is controlled by genetic factors in litchi cultivars. Similar
variations were also observed in the earlier findings of Haq and Rab (2012). The data
regarding to physical characters like fruit length and breadth of some litchi cultivars are
similar and fruit weight more or less similar to the findings of Gafoor et al. (1999). The
results recorded on fruit physical quality parameters of litchi cultivars are parallel with those
of Chandola and Mishara (2015) who found significant variation with respect to fruit
dimension (length, breadth), weight of aril, peel weight and specific gravity of fruit samples.
Yu-Chun et al. (2015) also reported there was significant difference in fruit weight, diameter
and aril weight. Singh and Nath (2012) also confirmed these variations with respect to fruit
weight, fruit dimension, and pulp weight among the selected clones of litchi. In another
study, Chandel and Sharma (1992) reported that high temperature or drought during fruit
growth was positively correlated with the development of abnormal fruit skin and thereby has
increased the incidence of cracking in fruits. High intensity of sunlight in summer also caused
skin cracking in litchi fruits (Kanwar et al., 1972; Shresstha, 1981). Wei et al. (2011)
reported that among different litchi cultivars, the variation in the colour of fruits’ pericarp due
to anthocyanin content which accumulated 93 per cent of the pigment identified as cyanidin3-rutinoside
4.5.2 Biochemical
4.5.2.1 Titratable acidity
The data pertaining to fruit acidity content is presented in Table 8. The lowest acidity
(0.32%) was recorded in Rose Scented which was at par with Calcuttia (0.34%) followed by
37
Seedless Late (0.39%) and Early Large Red (0.38%), whereas, the maximum acid content in
fruits was recorded in Dehradun (0.66%). The data for fruit acidity in the present study
considerably varied with those of Gaffroor et al. (1999) who observed that acid content of
fruit samples ranged from 0.8 to 2.10 per cent in different litchi cultivars.
4.5.2.2 Total soluble solids
Total soluble solids (TSS) content of fruit samples varied from 19.95 to 18.12 oBrix.
Early Large Red had maximum quantity of TSS content (19.95
o
Brix) which was
significantly higher than all other litchi cultivars studied. The lowest TSS content of 18.12
o
Brix was recorded in Seedless Late. These findings are not comparable with Ghaffoor et al.
(1999) who reported 10.01 to 13.87 oBrix TSS content in litchi cultivars. The variation in the
total soluble content in fruits samples might be due to the differences in cultivars, climatic
conditions, and stage of maturity of the cultivars.
4.5.2.3 TSS: acid ratio
Total soluble solids/acid ratio varied between Dehradun (28.48) and Rose Scented
(58.70). The variety Rose Scented had recorded maximum TSS/acid ratio (58.70) which was
statistically at par with Early Large Red (52.09) followed by Calcuttia (56.31). Dehradun
variety exhibited the minimum TSS/acid ratio of (28. 48). The results of present study are in
accordance with those of Chandola and Mishra (2015) who reported variation in TSS/ acid
ratio ranged between 18.46 and 49.51 in litchi cultivars under sub-tropical agro-climatic
conditions.
Table 8. Biochemical characteristic of fruits of some litchi cultivars
Cultivar
TSS (oBrix)
Titratable
acidity (%)
TSS : acid
Total sugars
(%)
Early Large Red
16.95
0.38
44.61
14.10
Dehradun
15.68
0.46
34.09
13.94
Calcuttia
15.24
0.34
44.82
13.95
Seedless Late
14.12
0.39
36.21
12.64
Rose Scented
15.71
0.32
49.09
13.77
C.D0.05
1.09
0.10
5.47
0.51
TSS, Total soluble solids
38
4.5.2.4 Total sugars
It was evident from the data that the total sugars content was maximum in Early Large
Red (15.10%) followed by Dehradun (13.65%), Calcuttia (11.95%) and Rose Scented (11.77
%). The lowest of total sugars content (11.64%) were recorded in Seedless Late (Table 8).
Total sugars content found in this study differed considerably from those of Ghaffoor et al.
(1999) who reported 8.60-11.60 per cent of total sugars in litchi. Miller and Bazore (1945)
reported total sugars in litchi varied from 12 to 20 per cent which ascribed to the cultivar
difference, geographical locations and agro-climatic conditions.
4.6
LEAF NUTRIENT CONTENT
4.6.1 Leaf nitrogen
The data on leaf nitrogen concentration is presented in Table 9. In different litchi
cultivars, it was observed that leaf N content ranged from 1.56-2.56 per cent. Highest leaf N
(2.56%) was recorded in Early Large Red followed by Dehradun (2.33%), Calcuttia (2.10 %)
and Rose Scented (1.78 %). However, the variety Seedless Late exhibited the lowest value of
leaf N content. Martin-Prevel et al. (1984) also observed the significant variation in leaf N in
different litchi cultivars ascribed to physiological of plant processes which differently
responded with respect to climatic conditions and ultimately affected the nutrient
composition of the plant.
Table 9. Leaf nutrient content of litchi cultivars in Shiwalik foothills
Cultivar
Early Large Red
Nitrogen (%)
2.56
Phosphorus (%)
0.20
Potassium (%)
1.22
Dehradun
2.33
0.19
1.12
Calcuttia
2.10
0.18
1.19
Seedless Late
1.56
0.17
0.89
Rose Scented
1.78
0.18
1.01
C.D0.05
0.15
NS
NS
NS, non-significant
4.6.2 Leaf phosphorous
In the present study, leaf P showed no significant difference among the different litchi
cultivars. However, the leaf P content exhibited a range of 0.16 to 0.20 per cent.
39
4.6.3 Leaf potassium
Leaf K content also showed no significant difference among litchi cultivars. However,
it was recorded in the range between 0.89-1.22 per cent. The cultivar Early large Red
exhibited the highest average leaf K content (1.22%) followed by Calcuttia (1.19%) and
Dehradun (1.12%).
4.7
DOP INDEXING
The data presented in Table 10 showed that litchi cultivars namely, Early Large Red,
Dehradun and Calcuttia exhibited a positive value of DOP for leaf N, P and, K except
Seedless Late and Rose Scented where it was negative for leaf N and K. DOP indexing were
in close agreement to diagnose N, P and K excesses, whereas, it was in deficiencies for leaf N
and K (Seedless Late and Rose Scented) and DOP reference values (Menzel et al., 1992). The
results are in close conformity with those of for leaf N in litchi (Menzel et al., 1988b), leaf P
(Mallik and Singh, 1965) and leaf K (Koen and Smart, 1982).
Table 10. DOP indexing determined from leaf nutrients in litchi cultivars
Cultivar
Early Large Red
N
+38.4
P
+25
K
+15.1
ΣDOP
+78.5
Dehradun
+25.9
+18.8
+5.7
+50.4
Calcuttia
+13.5
+12.5
+12.3
+38.3
Seedless Late
-15.7
+6.3
-16.0
-25.4
Rose Scented
-3.8
+11.7
+12.5
+15.1
-4.7
+2.5
+4.0
Mean
For any given element, a negative DOP index indicates a deficiency, whereas a
positive DOP index indicates an excess. Besides, it provides the general nutritional status of
nutrients through the DOP index, and obtained by adding the values of DOP index
irrespective of sign. Furthermore, the negative DOPN, K in the cultivars namely, Seedless Late
and Rose Scented attributed to low mobility and low availability in soil and indicated the
tendency of these nutrients deficiency in these cultivars. Moreover, in other litchi cultivars,
improved leaf N, P and K content could be explained with the scarcity of irrigation and low
precipitation during harvest periods which ascribed due to limited the organic matter
decomposition. Larger the DOP, the greater is the intensity of imbalances among nutrients
(Kumar et al., 2016b; Kumar et al., 2017) and the lower the DOP value, the greater is the
intensity of balance among nutrients.
40
Chapter-5
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
The present study entitled ‘Evaluation of Some Litchi Cultivars under Shiwalik
Foothills of Himachal Pradesh’ was carried out at Regional Horticultural Research and
Training Station, Dhaulakuan, Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh during 2019-20. The salient
findings of the study are summarized below:
5.1
Variation in different litchi cultivars was observed with respect vegetative growth
characteristics. Among different cultivars, plant height (4.8 to 6.8 m), shoot growth
(35.96 to 53.72 cm), trunk girth (50.61 and 65.68 cm) and leaf area (37.67 to 46.29
cm2). Maximum percentage of tree spread was recorded in Dehradun (72.6%)
followed by Seedless Late (35.2%), Rose Scented (18%) and Early Large Red (14%)
increased compared to Calcuttia.
5.2
The data pertaining to flowering traits revealed that the date of bud burst of some
litchi cultivars varied from 22.02.2019 to 05.03.2019. The earlier bud burst was
observed in Early Large Red, whereas, it was late in Seedless Late. The initiation of
flowering of litchi cultivars varied from 16.03.2019 (Early Large Red) to 28.03.2019
(Seedless Late).
5.3
Panicle length ranged between 26.00 and 34.16 cm. Maximum panicle length (34.16
cm) was recorded in Early Large Red. However, the minimum panicle length (26.00
cm) was observed in Seedless Late.
5.4
Minimum days from full bloom to harvest (53.33 days) was recorded in Early Large
Red which was statistically at par with Dehradun (59.00 days) and Rose Scented
(60.00 days), while, it was maximum in Seedless Late (64.33 days).
5.5
Date of harvesting of some litchi cultivars varied from 15.05.2019 (Early Large Red)
to 31.05.2019 (Seedless Late).
5.6
The cultivar, Dehradun observed maximum fruit set (56.71%) followed by Early
Large Red (54.08%) whereas, Rose Scented (33.66%) recorded minimum fruit drop
which was at par with Early Large Red (35.06%). Maximum fruit retention was
noticed in cultivar Dehradun (18.22%) compared to all other litchi cultivars studied.
5.7
Dehradun recorded the highest yield (70.40 kg/tree) followed by Early Large Red
(62.66 kg/tree). Similarly, yield efficiency value in terms of tree canopy volume was
highest (0.56 kg/cm3) in Calcuttia. The trees of Dehradun variety also exhibited the
maximum efficiency value in terms of canopy area (3.94 kg/m2). Maximum yield
efficiency with respect to leaf area was recorded with Early Large Red (1.66 kg/cm2)
followed by Dehradun (1.66 kg/cm2).
5.8
Among different litchi cultivars, the remarkable variation in respect dimension of fruit
samples was recorded. Dehradun observed maximum fruit length and breadth (35.54
mm, 29.16 mm), while, it was minimum in Seedless Late (29.88 mm). The fruit
weight varied from 17.38 g (Seedless Late) to 21.51 g (Dehradun). Significant
variation of peel weight among different litchi cultivars was also recorded.
5.9
Stone weight of litchi cultivars varied from 1.92 to 3.54 g. Calcuttia had the maximum
stone weight (3.54 g), while, the lowest stone weight was observed in Seedless Late
(1.92 g). Fresh weight of aril of litchi cultivars varied from 13.62 to 17.71 g.
Dehradun variety was recorded (17.71 g) followed by Early Large Red (15.25 g),
whereas, the lowest fresh weight of aril was observed in Rose Scented (15.45 g).
5.10
Pulp: stone ratio in fruit samples varied from 4.02 to 7.35. Maximum Pulp: stone
ratio was recorded in Seedless Late variety (7.35) followed by Dehradun (7.00).
Whereas, least in the cultivar Calcuttia (4.02).
5.11
Maximum incidence of fruit cracking (17.06%) was recorded in Early Large Red
followed by Dehradun (14.04%). However, it was least in Seedless Late (4.46%).
5.12
The lowest acidity (0.32%) was recorded in Rose Scented, whereas, the maximum
acid content in fruits was recorded in Dehradun (0.46%). Total soluble solids (TSS)
content of fruit samples varied from 14.12 to 16.95 oBrix. Early Large Red had
maximum TSS (16.95 oBrix). Total sugars were maximum in Early Large Red
(14.10%) followed by Dehradun (13.94%),
42
5.13
In different litchi cultivars, it was observed that leaf N content ranged from 1.56-2.56
per cent. Highest leaf N (2.56%) was recorded in Early Large Red followed by
Dehradun (2.33%), Calcuttia (2.10 %) and Rose Scented (1.78 %).
5.14
Early Large Red, Dehradun and Calcuttia exhibited a positive value of DOP for leaf
N, P and, K except Seedless Late and Rose Scented where it was negative for leaf N
and K. DOP indexing were in close agreement to diagnose N, P and K excess,
whereas, it was in deficiencies for leaf N and K (Seedless Late and Rose Scented).
CONCLUSIONS
The present study showed significant variation in terms of vegetative growth,
flowering, fruit physical and biochemical characteristics among the litchi cultivars. The
cultivar viz., Early Large Red has been found superior and early maturing with regard to fruit
set, yield efficiency, fruit weight, total soluble solids along with low degree of fruit cracking.
43
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50
APPENDIX-I
Monthly mean agro-meteorological data at RHRTS, Dhaulakuan, Sirmour (HP) during
the course of investigation
Month
Air Temperature (°C)
Maximum
Minimum
Relative
Humidity (%)
Rainfall
(mm)
January
19.6
7.0
83.77
4.12
February
21.3
10.0
86.92
10.51
March
26.2
13.0
84.54
5.33
April
36.2
20.0
88.61
6.47
May
39.3
23.3
92.68
7.77
June
40.5
26.8
87.89
514.40
July
34.0
26.4
86.93
516.80
August
34.3
26.3
90.69
336.8
September
33.3
25.6
88.90
294.87
October
32.2
19.0
89.74
3.35
November
27.0
13.7
91.77
19.46
December
17.3
7.8
82.98
4.55
Source: www.accuweather.com
i
APPENDIX-II
Analysis of variance for Plant height and trunk girth in litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.129
13.871
1.237
15.237
Plant height
MSS
F- calculated
3.468
0.155
22.421
Trunk girth
MSS
F- calculated
SS
22.533
999.067
250.133
1271.733
249.76
31.267
7.988
Analysis of variance for Shoot growth and canopy diameter in litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
3.466
621.298
970.630
1,595.39
Shoot growth
MSS
F- calculated
155.32
121.32
1.280
Canopy diameter (East-West)
SS
MSS
F- calculated
1.665
25.03
6.258
0.00004
1.395
0.174
28.09
Analysis of variance for Canopy diameter and leaf area in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
Canopy diameter (North-South)
SS
MSS
F- calculated
1.433
28.249
7.062
26.320
2.147
0.268
31.829
SS
16.728
128.841
144.748
290.318
Leaf area
MSS
F- calculated
32.21
18.09
1.780
Analysis of variance for trunk cross sectional area and tree canopy volume in litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
Trunk cross sectional area
SS
MSS
F- calculated
1,454.155
95,699.886 23,924.972
11.032
17,348.953
2,168.6
114,502.994
Tree canopy volume
SS
MSS
F- calculated
7,180.017
280,991.25 70,247.813
51.579
10,895.670
1,361.959
299,066.94
Analysis of variance for Canopy area and length of panicle in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
95.820
445.287
424.289
965.396
Canopy area
MSS
F- calculated
111.322
53.036
0.17277
SS
2.708
82.858
22.41
107.983
Length of panicle
MSS
F- calculated
20.715
2.802
7.393
Analysis of variance for fruit set and fruit drop in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
5.338
54.369
21.565
81.272
Fruit set
MSS
F- calculated
13.592
2.696
5.042
ii
SS
8.349
57.558
8.583
74.490
Fruit drop
MSS
F- calculated
14.389
1.073
13.412
Analysis of variance for fruit retention and fruit yield in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
4.530
48.440
4.032
57.002
Fruit retention
MSS
F- calculated
12.110
0.504
24.030
fruit yield
MSS
F- calculated
SS
51.600
1,535.067
17.733
1,604.400
383.767
2.217
173.128
Analysis of variance for yield /TCSA and yield/ TCV in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
95.820
445.287
424.289
965.396
yield/TCSA
MSS
F- calculated
111.322
53.036
2.099
Yield/ TCV
MSS
F- calculated
SS
0.004
0.383
0.015
0.402
0.096
0.002
51.284
Analysis of variance for Yield/ CA and yield/ leaf area in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.209
7.390
0.480
8.079
yield/TCSA
MSS
F- calculated
1.847
0.060
30.794
Yield/ TCV
MSS
F- calculated
SS
0.064
0.583
0.101
0.748
0.146
0.013
11.519
Analysis of variance for fruit length and fruit diameter in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
2.588
48.203
7.275
58.067
Fruit length
MSS
F- calculated
12.051
0.909
13.251
SS
15.738
35.621
15.054
66.413
Fruit diameter
MSS
F- calculated
8.905
1.882
4.732
Analysis of variance for fruit weight and peel weight of some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
2.108
28.110
2.088
32.306
Fruit weight
MSS
F- calculated
7.027
0.261
26.921
SS
0.012
0.074
0.009
0.095
Peel weight
MSS
F- calculated
0.018
0.001
16.843
Analysis of variance for specific gravity and total soluble solids in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.002
0.004
0.003
0.009
Specific gravity
MSS
F- calculated
0.001
0.000
3.290
iii
SS
0.148
6.284
2.618
9.050
Total soluble solids
MSS
F- calculated
1.571
0.327
4.801
Analysis of variance for titratable acidity and TSS/acid ratio in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.011
0.232
0.023
0.265
Titratable acidity
MSS
F- calculated
0.058
0.003
20.523
SS
139.850
1,758.650
485.952
2,384.452
TSS/ acid ratio
MSS
F- calculated
439.663
60.744
7.238
Analysis of variance for total sugars and stone weight in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.106
29.983
0.585
30.673
Total sugars
MSS
F- calculated
7.496
0.073
102.525
SS
0.122
2.493
0.787
3.402
Stone weight
MSS
F- calculated
0.623
0.098
6.335
Analysis of variance for fresh weight of aril and plup: stone ratio in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
6.440
26.164
4.826
37.430
Fresh weight of aril
MSS
F- calculated
6.541
0.603
10.842
SS
3.041
26.478
5.834
35.353
Pulp: stone
MSS
F- calculated
6.619
0.729
9.077
Analysis of variance for fruit cracking and leaf nitrogen in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
0.012
270.486
2.352
272.849
Fruit cracking
MSS
F- calculated
67.621
0.294
230.006
SS
115.578
249.700
62.017
427.294
Leaf nitrogen
MSS
F- calculated
62.425
7.752
8.053
Analysis of variance for leaf phosphorus and potassium in some litchi cultivars
Source of
variation
Replication
Treatment
Error
Total
DF
2
4
8
14
SS
26.298
49,454.464
182.113
49,662.876
Leaf Phosphorus
MSS
F- calculated
12,363.616
22.764
543.118
iv
SS
0.054
0.440
0.510
1.005
Leaf potassium
MSS
F- calculated
0.110
0.064
1.724
Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry
Nauni, Solan (HP) 173 230
Department of Fruit Science
Title of Thesis
: Evaluation of Some Litchi Cultivars under Shiwalik
Name of the Student
Admission Number
Major Advisor
Major Field
Minor Field(s)
Degree Awarded
Year of Award of Degree
No. of pages in Thesis
No. of words in Abstract
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Foothills of Himachal Pradesh
Masood Ahmad
H-2018- 44-M
Dr Pramod Kumar
Fruit Science
Soil Science
Master of Science (Horticulture) Fruit Science
2020
51+iv
294
ABSTRACT
The present investigation was carried out in Regional Horticultural Research and Training
Station of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry at Dhaulakuan, Sirmour (HP) during
2019-20. The experimental site is located at 35.5o North latitude and 77.5o East longitudes at an
elevation of 468 meters above mean sea level. Full bearing trees of 20 years age group of five litchi
cultivars namely, Early Large Red, Dehradun, Calcuttia, Rose Scented and Seedless Late were
selected to study the cropping behavior, flowering, fruit yield and quality characteristics. The results
showed a significant variation in vegetative growth characteristics viz., plant height, trunk girth,
canopy diameter, leaf area, TCSA, TCV, CA, length of panicle, fruit drop, fruit retention, fruit yield,
fruit weight, stone weight, and fresh weight of aril, pulp weight fruit cracking was observed among
different litchi cultivars. In general, the flower bud differentiation in the cultivars started in the month
of December and completed in the first week of February. The earlier bud burst was observed in Early
Large Red followed by Dehradun, Calcuttia and Rose Scented variety. Maximum percentage of tree
spread was recorded in Dehradun variety (72.6%) followed by Seedless Late (35.2%), Rose Scented
(18%) and Early Large Red (14%) increased compared to Calcuttia. Dehradun observed maximum
fruit set (56.71%) followed by Early Large Red (54.08%) which was found at par with the cultivars
Seedless Late (52.07%) and Calcuttia (53.19%). The results also showed remarkable variations among
different litchi cultivars in respect of fruit quality characteristics. Among different cultivars, variable
leaf nutrient concentration in terms of DOP showed that Early Large Red, Dehradun and Calcuttia
exhibited a positive value of DOP for leaf N, P and, K except Seedless Late and Rose Scented, where,
it was negative for leaf N and K.
Keywords: Litchi, yield, fruit cracking, generative traits
Signature of Major Advisor
Signature of the Student
Countersigned
Professor and Head
Department of Fruit Science
Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry
Nauni, Solan (HP) 173 230
51
BRIFE BIO-DATA
Name
:
Masood Ahmad
Father’s Name
:
Ali Akbar Nazari
Mother’s Name
:
Shiren Nazari
Date of Birth
:
05/09/1986
Sex
:
Male
Marital Status
:
Married
Nationality
:
Afghan
Permanent Address
:
Helmand Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan
Academic Qualification
Examination
Year of
passing
University/ board
OGPA
(% equivalent)
10 + 2
2009
Shahid Eng. Abdul Matin
(Helmand High School)
73.60
B.Sc.
(Horticulture )
2014
Helmand Higher Education Institute
67.72
Whether sponsored by some state /
Central Govt./Univ./ SAARC
:
NA
Scholarship/ stipend/ followed any
Other financial assistance received
During the study period
:
ICAR Scholarship
Place: Nauni, Solan
Date:
(Masood Ahmad)