Effect of foliar application of magnesium and micronutrients on growth, yield and fruit quality of mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco)

摘要

Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco) is grown in certain areas of Karnataka, Maharastra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Darjeeling, Sikkim and North-Eastern states. Citrus requires a fairly good amount of nutrients for better growth and yield. The estimate on the removal of nutrients in mandarin for high yield is 182 kg N, 54 kg K and 273 kg Ca/ha (Oppenheim, 13). Chapman (3) reported substantial removal of macro as well as micronutrients by citrus fruits. Such a heavy demand of nutrients by citrus tress cannot be met froth soil without supplementing them. According to Randhawa (12), the poor nutrient status of soil was the greatest single factor responsible for the decline of orange trees in our country. Chapman (3) and Calvert (2) have reported significant role of Zn, Cu and B on growth, yield and quality of citrus fruits. To ensure a healthy and productive orchard, it is essential to provide efficient orchard management practices. The present study was undertaken to find out the effect of Mg and micronutrients on yield and quality of fruits of mandarin orange.