Tropical and subtropical fruits (2+1)

Training and Pruning

• Training is done primarily to give form to the tree. For development of a strong framework, the first 60 to 90 cm from base of the trunk should be cleaned followed by 4 to 5 scaffold branches at an interval of 20-25 cm. When the plants attained a height of about 1.5m to 1.8 m, it is headed back to make the center open.
• In some parts of India (Maharashtra and South Bengal), the branches are bent down ward and tied to each other. Thus forcing the dormant buds to grow. This results in increased yields. The trees are rarely pruned in North India, but light annual pruning after harvesting to promote vegetative growth and flowering is desirable. All dead, diseased, crowded growth and suckers sprouting from the base and sides of the framework are pruned back annually. Pruned trees give larger fruits and early ripening.