Agripreneurship Project

LITCHICANA- LITCHI CULTIVATION UNIT

Presented by: Rajesh

LITCHI CULTIVATION

1.

INTRODUCTION

Litchi (Litchi chinensis) is a delicious juicy fruit of excellent quality. Botanically it belongs to Sapindaceae family. The translucent, flavoured aril or edible flesh of the litchi is popular as a table fruit in India, while in China and Japan it is preferred in dried or canned state. 2. OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this report is to present a feasible model for high quality commercial cultivation unit of Litchi in Muzaffarpur, Bihar.. 3. 3.1 BACKGROUND Origin

The origin of litchi is from southern China, particularly the provinces of Kwangtung and Fukien. The spread of litchi to other parts of the world was rather slow probably due to its soil, climatic requirements and short life span of its seed. Litchi reached India through Myanmar and North East region during the 18th Century. 3.2 Area & Production

India is the second largest producer of litchi in the World after China. Other major producing countries are Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar and Florida in US. Among fruit crops, litchi ranks seventh in area and ninth in production but is sixth in terms of value in India. The national average productivity of litchi is 6.1 t/ha, which is much lower than the realizable yield of the crop under well managed condition. The average productivity of litchi in Bihar is 8.0 tonnes/ha. and in West Bengal it is 10.5 tonnes/ha. In other states the productivity is much lower, the lowest of 1.0 t / ha in Uttaranchal.

3.3

Economic Importance

The food value of litchi mainly lies in its sugar content which varies from variety to variety. The fruit is also rich in Vitamin B1, Riboflavin & Vitamin C apart from proteins (0.7%), fats (0.3%), carbohydrates (9.4%), minerals (0.7%), fibrous matter (2.25%), calcium (0.21%), phosphorus (0.31%), iron (0.03%) and carotene. Litchi makes an

excellent canned fruit. A highly flavoured squash is also prepared from the litchi fruits, which is used during summers. Various other products such as pickles, preserves and wine are also made from litchi in China. Dried litchi commonly called litchi-nut is very popular among the Chinese. 4. 4.1 MARKET ANALYSIS AND STRATEGY Demand and Supply patterns

Due to very short production season of around two months in a year, market gluts leading to distress sale. The short span of fruit availability coupled with poor shelf life limits the duration of availability of litchi fruits in the domestic as well as international market. Shelf life of litchi fruits varies from 2 to 3 days under ambient conditions. With proper post harvest treatment (pre-cooling, sulphuring, acidification and storage at low temperature), the shelf life can be extended upto 2-3 weeks. Diverting a part of the produce towards processing is a safe solution to the problem and has been successfully adopted in other fruits like grape. Growers need to be educated on these possibilities in order to get better price for their produce and to minimize market risk. In India the availability of fresh fruits coincides with the lean period for other fruits i.e. May and June. Arrival commences during the first week of May in Tripura and by the third week of May in Bihar continuing upto the first week of June. In Uttar Pradesh and Punjab the crop is ready for harvest during the second and third week of June while in Himachal Pradesh it comes to harvest by the last week of June, thereby extending the total season of its availability to around two months in a year. 4.2 Import/Export trends

South Africa (28 %), Thailand (25 %) followed by China (20 %) hold a major share in the litchi trade while Indias share is hardly 1 %. In International markets the fruit remain available in plenty during November to March from countries like Australia (November March), Mauritius (February March), South Africa and Madagascar (November January). At present litchi fruits are exported by India mainly to the Netherlands, U.A.E., Saudi Arabia and Canada. APEDA and NAFED are the major export promoters of litchi. The demand from Arab countries, Europe and USA is increasing day by day. However, very little effort has been made by India to capture some part of the world market from China, the main player.

4.3

Analysis and Future Strategy

Litchi has a vast untapped potential in the domestic as well as the global market. However, inappropriate production practices, lack of regular maintenance, absence of infra-structure facilities (for cold storage, processing and canning) and of institutional support are some of the critical factors impeding the exploitation of the untapped potential. The following measures need to be considered in order to boost production and marketing of litchi. A three-tier system involving growers, processors and exporters may be formed along with export processing zones and marketing boards. Storage, pre-cooling and transport facilities to help the growers realize better prices. Processing units close to production centres, with financial and technical support from various Govt./non-Govt. agencies.

5. 5.1

PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY Agro-climatic requirements

Litchi is a sub-tropical fruit and thrives best under moist sub-tropical climate. It usually prefers low elevation and can be grown up to an altitude of 800 m. (m.s.l.). Deep, well drained loamy soil, rich in organic matter and having pH in the range of 5.0 to 7.0 is ideal for the crop. Frost during winter and dry heat in summer are limiting factors for its successful cultivation. The young trees require protection against frost and hot winds for several years till they are firmly established, even though some variation in temperature is necessary for proper fruiting of trees. The temperature should not go beyond 40.5 0C in summer and below freezing point in winter. Prolonged rain may be harmful especially at the time of flowering, when it interferes with pollination.

5.2

Growing and Potential Belts

In India, the commercial cultivation was traditionally restricted to the north in the foot hills of Himalayas from Tripura to Jammu & Kashmir and plains of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. However, with growing demand and viability of the crop, commercial cultivation has spread to several other states viz. Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh etc. 5.3 Varieties Cultivated

State-wise commercially grown varieties are given below . State Bihar & Jharkhand Orissa Punjab & Haryana Uttaranchal Uttar Pradesh West Bengal Varieties China, Deshi, , Purbi, Early & Late Bedana, Mclean, Muzzaffarpur, Rose Scented, Shahi, Kasba Muzaffarpur, Bombai, China Saharanpur, Dehradun, Calcuttia, Muzaffarpur, Seedless (Late) & Rose Scented Rose Scented, Calcuttia, Early & Late Seedless Seedless Early, Seedless Late, Early Large Red, Late Large Red, Calcutta, Rose Scented, Dehradun Muzaffarpur, China, Deshi, Purbi, Elachi Early, Elachi Late, Bombai, Goothi, Bedana, Potee, Kalyani Selection

5.4

Land Preparation

The land is cleared of all vegetation and leveled thoroughly. After this, the land is ploughed with disc plough and then with a harrow. Hot and desiccating winds in summer and cold winds in winter adversely affect the growth of litchi plants. Therefore, for proper establishment of a litchi plantation, a suitable wind break should be planted at the orchard boundary and it should be at right angle to the direction of prevailing winds. Tall growing trees such as mango, jamun, eucalyptus, arjun etc. are suitable for this purpose. 5.5 Planting Air layering is the most common method of propagation. It is usually done in the beginning of monsoon and the air layers can be detached from the mother plant after 6070 days. The details of planting operations are given below : Details Usual Practice

Planting Time

August September Planting may be done in spring and early summer if irrigation facility is available 10 m (both between the plants and rows) 8 m (when the climate is comparatively dry and the soil is not so fertile). Average no. of plants- 200 per ha. 1x1x1 m (pits are dug a few weeks prior to planting) Pits are left undisturbed initially for a period of 15-20 days. Filled with top soil mixed with manures and fertilizers @ 2025 kg FYM, 2 kg bonemeal and 300 g muriate of potash per pit

Planting Distance

Size of pits Filling of pits

A basket of soil taken from old litchi orchard is added to each pit to ensure mycorrhizal association with litchi roots. Pits are then watered so that the soil settles down. Square system of planting is usually followed. A small hole is made at the center of the pit and the desired material is planted. Water is applied immediately after planting

Planting

5.5

Training & Pruning

After planting, a certain amount of pruning is often necessary to give proper shape to the litchi plant. Once the desired shape is achieved, no pruning is usually necessary, except the removal of dead or diseased branches and damaged shoots or crossed limbs. At the time of harvesting, the part of the shoot bearing the fruit is removed to promote new growth. If the vegetative growth is too much then both root and shoot pruning needs to be done. But heavy pruning causes profuse vegetative growth, which takes place at the expense of flowering and fruiting. When the trees become too old and produce fruits of small size, heavy pruning is suggested.

5.6

Nutrition

The following table gives detail of the fertilizers / manures recommended for application : Table-3 : Manure/Fertilizer application for Litchi in north India.

Age of the Manure/Fertilizer applied (per plant/year in kg) CAN Super Muriate of potash plant (in years) FYM (Calcium phosphate ammonium nitrate) 1-3 10 - 20 0.3-1.00 0.2-0.6 0.05-0.15 4-6 25 - 40 1.0-2.0 0.75-1.25 0.20-0.30 7-10 40 50 2.0-3.0 1.50-2.0 0.35-0.45 Above 10 60 3.5 2.25 0.60

5.7

Irrigation

Two irrigations at an interval of 45 60 days during winter months is required for bearing litchi trees. Irrigation at fortnightly intervals after fruit setting in March till the end of June is required especially during the hot summer months. Basin or ring system of irrigation is recommended. Use of drip irrigation has proved to be good for plant growth besides being economical. 5.8 Intercultural Operations

Litchi orchard should be kept clean of unwanted weeds especially during the initial years of growth. Orchards should be ploughed with soil turning plough and harrowed once after the rainy season in October and the second after the harvesting of fruits in June or July.

5.9

Mulching

The farmyard manure, compost or straw may be used for soil mulching. When straw is used as soil mulch, an additional dose of 25 30 kg. Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) per ton of dry straw should be applied to hasten the decomposition. Cutting down of tall growing weeds in the orchard and spreading them over the soil is another method of mulching the soil. 5.10 Inter-cropping

Litchi is a long gestation crop taking about 5-6 years to the fruiting stage. Inter-cropping is feasible in the first three or four years. Apart from giving good annual income during

the non-bearing period, inter-crops protect the young litchi plant, enrich the soil, improve the physical condition of the soil and keep the weeds under control. 5.11 Plant Protection Measures

5.11.1 Insect Pests In litchi, mite and shoot borer are the two serious pests that causes immense damage to the crop. The infestation of the latter is more in case of the September-October flush as compared to February-March flush. The intensity of the pest is more on Tikolia and Shahi varieties. Litchi shoot borer can effectively be controlled by spraying Cypermethrin (0.01%) twice at 7 days interval during flushing. Other pests include bark eating caterpillars (Indarbela tetraonis, I.quadrinotata), weevil (Amblyrrhinus poricolis), butterflies (Virachola isocrates) and worm/fruit stone borer (Argyroploce carpophaga). 5.11.2 Diseases Litchi is almost free from fungal diseases in India. The rot caused by Helmenthosporium hawaiense and rotting of fruits caused by Aspergillus sp. are some of the fungal diseases observed. These can be controlled by spraying with fungicides immediately after the appearance of the symptoms. No fungicides should be applied on the trees or fruits at least 20 days before harvesting. 5.12 Disorders

The two types of physiological disorders which are commonly observed are fruit cracking and fruit drop. Fruit cracking is a major problem in litchi resulting in deterioration of fruit quality. Presence of optimum moisture level in the soil during fruit development is crucial for reducing fruit cracking and quality litchi production. Early varieties (e.g. Shahi) are more susceptible to cracking than late ripening one (e.g. China). Application of two foliar sprays of 20 ppm. NAA, first at pea stage of fruit development and second ten days after the first spray and scheduling of irrigation at 20% DASM (at 3 days interval during MayJune) should be given to control the disorder. Foliar application of boric acid (0.4 %) and 2,4- D (10 ppm.) is also effective in minimizing the disorder. 5.13 Harvesting and Yield

The litchi plant has a long growing period with four different phenophases. Depending on the tree age there are four growth phases in litchi plants viz. , young non-bearing stage (1-3 years), young bearing stage (6-10 years), junior adult bearing stage (11-20 years) and senior adult bearing stage (21 years and above). During the junior adult bearing phase the tree enters into a condition when the vegetative growth and reproductive

growth remain relatively balanced. Fruiting begins from 5 6 years of age in case of plants propagated through air layering. After flowering, it takes 70 to 100 days for the fruits to ripe in most of the commercial varieties of India. On an average, the litchi tree yields 40-100 kg. fruits annually depending on the variety, locality, season, nutrition and age. Harvesting is usually done in May and June. The maturity of the fruits is judged by the flatness of tubercles and comparative smoothness of the epicarp. Besides that the fruit colour changes from green to pink on maturity. The fruits are harvested in bunches along with a portion of the branch and a few leaves. This helps in improving the keeping quality of the fruits and at the same time the tree receives a mild pruning.

6.

POST HARVEST MANAGEMENT

Litchi is non-climacteric fruit that possesses poor shelf life and therefore needs specific treatment before packing and transportation for long distance market. For local markets, the fruits should be collected at the ripened stage, while for distant market, the fruits should be harvested when they have started turning reddish. After harvesting, the fruits should be kept in cool, dry and properly ventilated rooms to facilitate the ripening process under high atmospheric temperature. If exposed to sun even for a few hours the quality deteriorates markedly. 6.1 Grading

Grading is done according to the size of the fruits. The damaged, sun-burnt and cracked fruits are sorted out before packing. 6.2 Storage

The fruits cannot be stored at room temperature for more than a few days. It loses its bright red colour and turns brown within 2 3 days after harvesting. Mature litchi fruits can be stored for a period of 8 to 12 weeks at the temp. of 1.6 to 1.70C and relative humidity ranging between 85 to 90%. 6.3 Packing

The fruits are graded and packed in shallow baskets or crates lined with leaves of litchi, soft dry grass or banana leaves.

6.4

Transportation

The fruit along with twigs is packed and transported by truck to the wholesalers and retailers of the nearest towns. During transit care should be taken to avoid crushing of fruits and damage of the skin. Litchi being a highly perishable fruit, its marketing should be done as early as possible. 6.5 Marketing

Farmers directly sell their produce to the middlemen. The fruit is sold through a post harvest contractor to the wholesale or commission agent, who undertakes the harvesting and packing, in addition to transporting the produce to the market. More than 65 % of the growers prefer sale through post harvest contractor and about 20 % undertake self marketing.

The main channels of marketing include the following: Producer PHC wholesaler/commission agent (distant market) stockists retailers consumers. Producer wholesaler/commission agent (distant market) stockists retailers consumers (self marketing). Producer Village level agent commission agent stockists retailers consumers.

7.

ECONOMICS OF A ONE ACRE MODEL

Costs & Returns: 7.1 A one acre plantation of the crop is a highly viable proposition. The cost components of such a model along with the basis for costing are given in the figure below. The project cost works out to Rs.1.50 lakh per acre. Project Financial details as per annexure A & B :

7.2

The major components of the details are:

 Land Development: (Rs.4.00 thousand): shaping and dressing the land site.

This is the labour cost of

Fencing (Rs.29.60 thousand): It is necessary to guard the orchard by barbed wire fencing to safeguard the valuable produce from animals and prevent poaching. Irrigation Infra-structure (Rs.50.00 thousand): For effective working with drip irrigation system, it is necessary to install a bore well with diesel/electric pumpset and motor. This is part cost of tubewell.

Drip Irrigation & Fertigation System (Rs.20.00 thousand): This is average cost of one acre drip system for the crop inclusive of the cost of fertigation equipment. The actual cost will vary depending on location, plant population and plot geometry. Equipment/Implements (Rs.10.00 thousand): For investment on improved manually operated essential implements a provision of another Rs.10 thousand is included. Building and Storage (Rs.16.80 thousand): A one acre orchard would require minimally a labour shed and a store-cum grading/packing room/pump house. Cost of Cultivation (Rs.19.60 thousand): The cost on planting material, inputs used and labour in cultivation operations is estimated at Rs.19.60 thousand during the pre-operative period. 7.3 Labour cost has been put at an average of Rs.70 per man-day. The actual cost will vary from location to location depending upon minimum wage levels or prevailing wage levels for skilled and unskilled labour. 7.4 Recurring Production Cost: The main components are planting material (80 plants/per acre at 7x7m spacing), land preparation, inputs application (FYM, fertilizers, liming material, plant protection chemicals etc.) and labour cost on application of inputs, inter-cultural and other farm operations. 7.5 Besides, provision is also included for power charges, labour for harvesting and packing/transportation charges for the produce to the nearest secondary market.

7.6 Inter-cropping with vegetables from year 2 to year 5 has been taken into consideration for economic viability of the project. 7.7 Returns from the Project: The yield from the plantation is estimated to go up from 2.0 tonnes in year 5 to 6.0 tonnes in the year 9 at which it levels off. The produce has been valued at Rs.27,000 per tone for current year. From third year will get fruits. 7.7 Expansion of enterprise: The enterprise will put up Litchi processing plant in th the 5 Year.

In India, litchi is grown mostly in natural fertile soil. A little of no manure is given. The acute shortage of N, P and K seems to stunt all forms of litchi growth, including floral initiation. The fertilizer schedule recommended for litchi for north Indian plains is given in tables 1 and 2. Table 1. Fertilizer schedule for litchi in north India Age of plant Fertilizers /plant /year (kg) Farmyard manure 1-3years 4-6years 7-10 years Above 10 years 10-20 25-40 40-50 60 Calcium Superphosphate Muriate of potash ammonium nitrate 0.3-1.00 0.2-0.6 0.05-0.15 1.0-2.00 0.75-1.25 0.20-0.30 2.0-3.00 1.50-2.00 0.30-0.50 3.50 2.25 0.60

Table 2. Fertilizer schedule recommended in Bihar Manure / fertilizer Compost Castor cake Neem cake Single superphosphate Muriate of potash Calcium nitrate First year 20kg 1kg 1/2kg 2 1/2kg 100g Increasing amount every year (up to 56years) 10kg 1/2kg 1/2kg 1/4kg 50kg 1/2kg Fertilizer dose of full bearing tree 60kg 5kg 3kg 5kg 0.5kg 0.002g

Fertilizer should be applied just after harvesting during the rainy season. If fertilizers are applied late, there is more vegetative growth and less fruiting. Method of Manuring is similar to that of other fruit crops. The plants grown under deficiency of NPK can flower but do not set fruits. The plants grown under Mg deficiency do not even bloom.

Litchi, originally a native of south China, reached India by the end of 17th century. India ranks second in the world next to China in litchi production. Most area falls in north Bihar comprising Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, east and west Champaran and Bhagalpur districts. Litchi is famous for its excellent quality, pleasant favour, juicy pulp (aril) with attractive red color. Although litchi is liked very much as a table fruit, dried and canned litchis are also popular. A highly flavoured squash is also prepared from its fruits. The fruit consists of 60 % juice, 8 % rag, 19 % seed and 13 % skin varying upon variety and climate. Litchi is also an excellent source of vitamin C(40.0-90mg/100g) but it contains insignificant amount of protein (0.8-0.9%) fat (0.3%), pectin(0.43%) and minerals especially calcium, phosphorus and iron (0.7%). Climate and soil

Generally it flourishes best in a moist atmosphere, having abundant rainfall and free from frost. Its plants grow luxuriantly at 30 C. the maximum temperature during flowering and fruit development varies from 21 C in February to 38 C in June in Bihar. Humidity is another important factor for litchi. The hot winds in summer cause fruit cracking and subsequently damage the pulp (aril). Sometimes it limits the expansion of litchi cultivation. Wet spring, dry summer and light winter are desirable conditions for fruiting in litchi. Litchi grows in a variety of soil types. However fairly deep, well drained loam soil rich in organic matter is best suited for its cultivation. Light sandy loam is ideal. High lime content in soil is also beneficial to its trees. If soil is deficient, lime must be added to it. Soils in north Bihar, where best litchi is grown, contain about 30%lime. A sandy loam or clay loam with a pH of 5.5-7.0 and sufficient soil depth is ideal for litchi cultivation. Varieties A large number of varieties are grown in different parts of India. Of these, Early Seedless (Early Bedana) , Rose Scented, Dehradun, Gulabi, Calcuttia, Purbi, Kasba, Shahi, Bombai, Late Seedless (Late Bedana), China and Deshi are important.

Litchi fruits on tree

Shahi, Rose Scented and China are commercial varieties of Muzaffarpur, while Kasba and Purbi are the choicest litchis of the eastern parts in Bihar. Early Bedana and Late Bedana are other important litchi varieties. In Uttar Pradesh, Rose Scented, Dehradun and Calcuttia, and in West Bengal, Bombay Green and Kalyani selection are extensively grown. Muzaffarpur, Dehradun, Seedless and Late Bedana are widely grown varieties in Punjab. An early, non-cracking seedless selection, Swaran Roopa, has been identified for commercial planting in Chhota Nagpur area. Propagation Litchi is raised both through seed and vegetative means.

Seed propagation Propagation by seed is not common because the plants raised from seed take 7-12 years to come into bearing. These plants normally do not produce true to type fruits and often produce fruits of inferior quality. Seeds are used generally to raise seedlings for rootstock purpose or raising hybrid seedlings. They should be sown immediately after extraction from the fruit, as they lose their viability in 4-5 days. If seeds remain in the fruit and fruits are not allowed to dry, they can be kept viable for 3-4 weeks. For germination, seeds soaked in water for 18-20 hours should be placed horizontally about 1.5 cm below the surface of a well drained soil. The growth of seedlings may be improved by the use of mycorrhizal soil. Vegetative propagation Litchi can be propagated successfully by cuttings and grafting (splice and inarching). Budding is not commonly practiced. The most common and the easiest method adopted all over the world is air layering. Air layering is also called marcotting in china and gootee in India. About 2 cm wide ring of bark is removed just below a bud from a healthy and vigorous twig about one year old and 2.5-4.0 cm across. The cut is then surrounded with a mud ball containing sphagnum moss (2 parts of damp moss and 1 part of soil from the foot of old litchi tree is best suited) and wrapped with a polythene sheet. Both ends are tied with fine rope or rubber bands to make it practically air tight. When sufficient roots are formed in about 2 months, the branch is cut below the soil or sphagnum moss and potted in a nursery. July October is the most appropriate time. After removing the air layers (marcotts) from the mother plant, it is desirable to provide some moist or humid atmosphere by sprinkling water mist for further 2 or 3 weeks. It is necessary to cut back the top of the branch, so as to secure a proper proportion of leaves to root. At least 6 months old marcotted (air layered) plants should be planted in the permanent field preferably in monsoon (rainy season). I BA (2-10 g/litre of water) is the most effective in root promotion in air layering of litchi. Cultivation Planting Before planting, the land should be cleared and levelled with gentle slope on one side of the plot, on the opposite direction of irrigation source. Then pits of 1 m x 1 m x 1 m size should be dug at the desired places a few weeks before the actual planting. These are kept open for 15- 20 days and then refilled with a mixture of well rotted farmyard manure, leaf mould and canal silt. A mixture of farmyard manure (20-25 kg), bone meal

(2kg) and sulphate of potash (400g) is also recommended to be mixed with a basket full soil in a pit from a litchi orchard, containing mycorrhizal fungi. It is helpful in establishment and quick growth of newly planted plants. The pits are watered to set this mixture with the earth. Planting is done after a week. Water is applied immediately after planting. Litchi trees are usually planted square system, 10 m apart. The distance can be reduced to 7.5 m apart each way where litchi plants need protection either from frost or from the desiccating winds. For quick establishment and less mortality, healthy 6-9 months old, true to type plants, with fine roots should be selected. It is advisable to inoculate all the new plants with mycorrhizal fungi. After planting, the land should not be allowed to dry completely. Hence the new plantation is recommended during early monsoon season. Planting can also be done in the spring, if irrigation facilities are available. Planting is not advisable when the weather is either too dry or too wet. Training and pruning Training young litchi plants for making a good framework is necessary. Once the desired shape and a strong framework is achieved, pruning is not required, except removing dead or diseased branches and damaged shoots. In India, this occurs indirectly when a part of the shoot bearing the cluster of fruits is removed during harvesting. However, heavy pruning of tree causes profuse vegetative growth resulting in poor fruiting. If trees become too old and produce small sized fruits, pruning heavily improves the yield and quality of fruits. Manuring and fertilization In India, litchi is grown mostly in natural fertile soil. A little of no manure is given. The acute shortage of N, P and K seems to stunt all forms of litchi growth, including floral initiation. The fertilizer schedule recommended for litchi for north Indian plains is given in tables 1 and 2. Table 1. Fertilizer schedule for litchi in north India Age of plant Fertilizers /plant /year (kg) Farmyard manure 1-3years 4-6years 7-10 years Above 10 years 10-20 25-40 40-50 60 Calcium Superphosphate Muriate of potash ammonium nitrate 0.3-1.00 0.2-0.6 0.05-0.15 1.0-2.00 0.75-1.25 0.20-0.30 2.0-3.00 1.50-2.00 0.30-0.50 3.50 2.25 0.60

Table 2. Fertilizer schedule recommended in Bihar Manure / fertilizer Compost Castor cake Neem cake Single superphosphate Muriate of potash Calcium nitrate First year 20kg 1kg 1/2kg 2 1/2kg 100g Increasing amount every year (up to 56years) 10kg 1/2kg 1/2kg 1/4kg 50kg 1/2kg Fertilizer dose of full bearing tree 60kg 5kg 3kg 5kg 0.5kg 0.002g

Fertilizer should be applied just after harvesting during the rainy season. If fertilizers are applied late, there is more vegetative growth and less fruiting. Method of Manuring is similar to that of other fruit crops. The plants grown under deficiency of NPK can flower but do not set fruits. The plants grown under Mg deficiency do not even bloom. Aftercare Maintenance of good sanitary conditions is must to keep litchi orchards healthy and disease free. Litchi is a deep rooted tree with most of its feeding roots occurring 20-30 cm deep. Therefore, deep tillage is harmful for its plant since it may cause injury to its roots. Tillage operations should be limited up to upper 7-10cm soil layers, whereas deep tillage up to 15 cm during inactive growth phase is advised. Since litchi is a slow growing tree taking at least 6years to come to flowering and fruiting, intercropping vegetables, pulses and berseem is advised. Some quick growing fruit plants like phalsa and papaya can also be grown in early years of its plantation. The intercrops should be manured separately and protected from pests and diseases. Weeds are controlled mainly by hand weeding or hoeing which is very laborious and expensive. Applying pre-emergence herbicides diuron or atrazine @ 2 kg /acre at one month interval keeps weeds under control. Use of black polythene mulch also controls weeds more effectively than organic mulch. Irrigation January end to the onset of monsoon is a critical period for irrigation since vegetative growth and fruit development take place. Four months prior to normal floral initiation period (December-January) in northern India, the plants should not be irrigated. Though litchi is a deep rooted, perennial fruit crop, the absorbing roots mostly occur in the upper topmost soil layer between 20 and 30cm depths. Therefore, this zone should have 50%

soil moisture during the critical period. Young trees should be irrigated by the basin system. As the tree grows, the basin should be gradually enlarged. The fully grown trees are irrigated by flooding or by furrow irrigation, depending on the availability and source of water as per their requirement. The frequency of irrigation ordinarily depends on soil type. Generally weekly irrigation should be given in summer. No irrigation is required during winter in fruiting trees before fruit set. Harvesting and post harvest management The number of days taken by the fruit to mature varies with genotype and environment and hence cannot be the deciding factor for its maturity. Generally litchi fruits, mature 50-60 days after fruit set. The development of color on fruits is a dependable criterion of maturity but it differs from variety to variety. Generally fruits turn deep red when fully ripe. Fruits harvested at this stage possess excellent fruit quality. Maturity of fruit is also determined by the shape of the tubercles which on ripening become somewhat flattened and the epicarp becomes smooth. Litchi fruits, like other fruits, are not harvested individually to avoid skin rupturing at the stem end and quick rotting of fruits. They are harvested in bunches along with a portion of the branch and a few leaves. It prolongs the storage life of fruits. Harvesting of litchi is usually done in May and June. In Bihar, it is done in early June. In India, yield varies from 80-150kg fruits/ tree depending upon variety and tree vigour. After harvesting, fruits should be packed as quickly as possible, as their quality deteriorates markedly, if they are exposed to sun even for a few hours. In packed litchi fruits, air should circulate freely. The damaged, sun burnt and cracked fruits should be sorted and graded properly. There should be only fruits of one grade in a box. Fruits of different varieties should be packed separately. It is better if the box or container is tagged having name of variety and grade. These are lined with litchi leaves or other soft packing material as paper shavings, wool etc. To maintain quality and avoid gluts, fruits should be stored properly. Keeping fruits in storage at 5-7 C may minimize the losses. Besides retaining color and taste, the storage also minimizes the heavy loss in fruit weight. At present almost entire litchi crop in India is consumed fresh. Since litchi is a highly perishable fruit, its canning and preserving into squashes, jelly and juice is desirable to utilize surplus produce, if any. The fruits for local market should be harvested at their full ripe stage, while for distant markets they start turning reddish. If marketing of packed fruits is delayed, they should be kept in a cold storage. Litchi fruits can be stored in good condition for 3-4 weeks. Physiological disorder Sun burn and skin cracking in developing fruits are two serious problems in litchi. High temperature, low humidity and soil moisture conditions during fruits development promote these disorders.

Inadequate moisture during early period of fruit growth results in the skin becoming hard and sun burnt. It may crack when it is subjected to increased internal pressure as a result of rapid aril growth following irrigation or rain. Fruit cracking in litchi is also favoured if temperature goes above 38`C and relative humidity less than 60%. Although effective control measures have not been recommended, frequent and adequate irrigation to bearing trees during fruit growth and development period is most useful. Growth regulators NAA ( 20mg/ liter of water), GA ( 40 mg/ liter of water), 2,4-D (10mg/ liter of water), 2, 4,5-T (10 mg/ liter of water) and Ethephon (10 mg/ liter of water ) reduce the incidence of fruit cracking. Spraying with Zinc Sulphate ( 1. 5%) weekly or Calcium Nitrate (1.5%) fortnightly from pea size to harvesting of fruit is an effective method to reduce cracking.

Cultivation of litchis
Temperature and humidity
The average maximum temperature in the litchi-producing areas of South Africa should be at least 23 C during October and 24 C during November, with a relative humidity of 50 % and higher. The average monthly minimum temperature in areas where litchis are produced should be above 6 C. Areas where heavy frost occurs are not suitable for litchi production. It should, however, be cold and dry enough in winter to ensure good dormancy. The minimum temperature in some Lowveld areas (Malelane and Komatipoort) does not drop low enough in winter to give the trees the proper dormancy period. Trees can be forced into dormancy by withholding water/irrigation during the 3 coldest months of the year. Producers must, however, ensure that especially young trees do not dry out.

Soil
Litchis grow very well, especially in sandy soil in the cooler subtropical areas. However, the trees also grow and produce well in clay soil in warmer areas. Litchis are well adapted to different soil types.

Water supply
Because of the varying root distribution in different soils (deep in sandy soils, shallow in clay soils) water is very important for the optimum development of the plant. In sandy soils short irrigation cycles with small quantities of water are usually effective. In clay soils water is available for longer periods, but it is important that the soil does not become too wet or too dry.

Drainage
Poorly-drained soil or soil with impenetrable layers shallower than 1 m below the surface is not suitable for litchis. Although gravelly or rocky soils drain well, these do not supply enough water to the trees because of poor waterholding capacity. Good irrigation practices, such as wetting the soil more frequently with small quantities of water will make these soils more suitable.

Cultivars
Litchis were originally imported from China, India, Taiwan and Florida, USA. Cultivars grown in South Africa are divided into the following groups: Mauritius group This group is usually planted locally as well as abroad and produces satisfactory yields and fruit of good quality, e.g. H.L.H., Mauritius, Muzaffarpur, Late Large Red, Hazipur, Saharanpur and Rose-Scented. Chinese group These trees produce very poor yields, but the fruit is of excellent quality and has a high percentage of chicken-tongue seeds. Cultivars include Haak Yip, Shang Shou Huai, Kontand, Glutinous Rice and Three Months Red. Madras group These trees bear colourful red fruit, but fruit quality is poor. Cultivars include Kafri, Shorts Seedless, Johnstone's Favourite, Emmerson, Durbhanga, Maries, Mooragusha, Madras 19, Hazipur/Saharanpur, Red McLean, Brewster and Bedana.

Tree quality
A good air-layer tree has a single erect stem. The first scaffold branches should branch horizontally at a height of about 200 mm. Any acute forks that branch lower than 200 mm should be avoided.

In grafted trees the graft-union height should be about 200 mm from the ground so that the first scaffold branches can branch at 300 mm. The graft union must be strongly attached and nurserymen must remove the grafting strip so that girdling cannot occur.

Aftercare of grafted trees

Trees can also be propagated by means of grafting. Weekly aftercare is very important and suckers and wild shoots that develop on the rootstock below the graft wound must be removed. After 5 to 6 weeks the buds start swelling and growing. A small cut can then be made through the plastic next to the bud. The bud grows through this cut, but the plastic strip must not be removed too soon. Once the first new growth has hardened off, the strip can be removed. Grafted trees have a better root system than trees developed from air layers and therefore show rapid initial growth. Air layering is, however, preferred to grafting because of a better end product.

Soil sampling
A representative soil sample should be taken for analysis. A soil sample must represent a homogeneous area where there are no visible soil differences. If there are colour or texture differences the land should be subdivided and separate samples of the different parts should be taken. Use a spade to take the samples.

How deep?
Take soil samples up to 300 mm below the soil surface. Take subsoil samples from 300 to 500 mm below the soil surface.

How many?
A sample should consist of not less than 10 subsamples. The area represented by the sample should not exceed 3 ha.

Where?
The samples must be taken evenly over the entire area.

Mixing and packing

Mix the subsamples of a particular land thoroughly in a clean container (not a fertiliser bag). Keep the topsoil (0-300 mm) separate from the subsoil (300-500 mm). A 2-kg sample of this mixture is then packed into clean plastic bags or suitable containers. Use separate containers for the top and subsoil. Put a label on the outside of the container to prevent it from becoming illegible. On the label must appear:

- Your name

- The number of the land - The depth at which the sample was taken.

Results
The results will provide valuable information on the type and quantity of fertilisation that should be applied before planting. Remember to incorporate the required quantity of lime about 6 to 12 months before planting if a large quantity is required and phosphate about 3 months before planting.

Soil preparation
Examine the soil for suitability in respect of depth, drainage and compacted layers. It should preferably be 1 to 2 m deep. Prepare the soil according to the results of the soil analysis, especially when large quantities of lime are required. If the soil is suitable for litchi production, it must be prepared well in advance. Before planting, the soil must be tilled as deep and as thoroughly as possible so that it will not be necessary to make the planting holes too big. If the soil is very acid, heavy lime applications may be necessary. Two-thirds of the recommended quantity of lime must be scattered over the planting area, mixed with the topsoil and then ploughed in as deep as possible, at least 9 to 12 months before planting. Calcium (lime) moves very slowly downwards into the soil and must therefore be worked in to the depth of the root zone. A cover crop can then be planted and ploughed in about 6 months later to improve the organic matter content of the soil. The remaining lime (one third) and all the required phosphate must be scattered and incorporated at the same time. The trees can be planted 3 months later. If a lighter lime application (2_4 t/ha) is required, the lime can be worked into the soil at least 3 months before planting and phosphate 1 month before planting.

Fertilisation
Do not fertilise newly-transplanted trees too soon. Fertiliser should only be applied about 1 year after transplanting. The applications must be very light and broadcast evenly, but not against the stems of the trees. Irrigate after applying fertiliser.

Application and quantities

Fertiliser should be broadcast evenly about 0,2 m from the stem to 0,5 m outside the drip area of the tree. Irrigate lightly immediately after application. Fertilisers must not be worked into the soil. As soon as the trees are established and start growing, fertiliser must be applied regularly according to the quantities given in the table.

Time of application
Quantity of fertiliser per tree per year according to age (g) Age years 1 2-3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 - 11 12 - 13 14 - 15 15 and older LAN 28 % N 200 500 1 000 1 500 2 000 2 500 3 000 3 500 4 000 Superphosphate 250 250 250 500 500 750 750 1 000 1 000 Potassium chloride 50 100 200 300 400 500 750 1 000 1 000

Remember: This is only a guideline; correct fertilisation can only be applied according to the soil analysis for young trees and soil and leaf analyses for fruit-bearing trees. Nitrogen (N) First year - divide the nitrogen fertiliser into 8 equal monthly applications of 25 g each and apply during summer (September to April). Second to fifth year - divide the nitrogen fertiliser into 5 equal applications and apply during summer (September to April). Sixth year and older - half of the nitrogen fertiliser is applied immediately before flowering and the remainder just after harvesting. Phosphate (P) All the phosphate is applied immediately after harvesting. Potassium (K) Half of the potassium fertiliser is applied just before flowering and the remainder after harvesting.

Zinc (Zn) and boron (B) Zinc must be applied at least 4 times a year. The following substances and concentrations are recommended per 100 l of water: Zinc oxide at 200 g or Nitro-Zn at 150 ml or Agri-zinc at 50 ml.

Spray the trees from soon after planting with 100 g borax or 75 g Solubor/100 l water every 2 years.

Organic fertiliser
Kraal or chicken manure can be used as additional fertiliser at 2 or 1 kg respectively per mature (10 years) tree, spread evenly in the drip area. However, if no other fertiliser is available, kraal manure can be applied as follows: Tree age (years) 1 2-3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 - 11 12 - 13 Maximum Kraal manure (kg/tree/year) 5 Time of application 1 kg every 6 weeks from September to April

15 Give 5 equal dressings between 25 September and April 40 55 Give 1/2 the quantity before blossoming 70 and the remainder after harvesting 80 100

Water requirements
Litchi trees need regular watering and therefore it is essential that enough water must be available from the flowering stage until after the February/March flush following the harvest. Because the edible portion of the litchi fruit has a water content of 86 %, the availability of water remains important during the development period. A water shortage will delay development of the fruit and adversely affect the size, mass and quality of the litchis. Irrigation must continue after harvesting to ensure that a normal growth flush occurs during February/March, just before the beginning of the dormant period. During dormancy (April to July) irrigation should be reduced, but the tree should not suffer drought. Young trees that are not producing yet are irrigated throughout the year. Producers normally stop irrigating the trees during the coldest months of the year (June and July) so that they can have a proper dormant period. In areas where it is never very cold, irrigation should stop to force the trees into dormancy.

Covering litchi fruit clusters

Covering the fruit with paperbags prevents damage from fruitflies and litchi moths, as well as sunburn and cracking. The best time for covering the clusters will vary from one locality to the next. Paperbags are at present the most suitable and also the cheapest covering material. The fruit develops a very attractive red colour inside the paperbags. Covering the fruit also extends the harvest period because fruit can be left on the tree for a longer period. The paperbag at present used is open at both ends. It is made from reinforced brown paper that is very resistant to the elements. The fruit must, however, be covered in the correct way and during the right time of the day (not early in the morning or immediately after rain), because of the risk of decay when covered while still wet. Spray against litchi moth and fruitflies just before covering. Remove all the leaves on the cluster stem before covering. Do not put more than 25 litchis in one bag. The bags must be fixed to hang to an angle to allow water to flow out. o Both sides of the bag must be closed and, if necessary, a small opening must be left for rainwater to run out. The open ends can easily and quickly be stapled together. o The paperbags will even keep fruit bats and birds away. o Another advantage is that the fruit is handled less during harvesting and this limits damage caused by rough handling. o When removed carefully, the bags can be used for another season.

Insect pests
Important pests include bark borers, litchi moth and fruitflies. Consult your nearest extension officer about ways to control these insects.

Harvesting
The stage of maturity at which fruit is harvested is one of the most important factors that determine the ultimate quality at the point of sale. Litchis do not develop further after picking. The fruit must therefore remain on the tree until quite ripe. Litchis harvested too early have an unattractive colour and have a sour taste.

When are litchis ripe?

Ripe fruit has an average mass of between 21 and 25 g. Fruit with a mass of at least 21 g is therefore ready for harvesting during a normal season.

Packing
Litchis are packed as loose fruit and all unnecessary twigs or stems must be removed to ensure neat packing.

4. PRODUCTION OF PLANTING MATERIAL Lychee may be propagated both by seed and by vegetative means. In Bangladesh air layering is the most common and popular method for propagation of lychee. In this method a ring of bark about 2.5 cm to 3 cm in length is removed from one year old twigs. Generally the terminal branch which is selected for air layering is 60 cm to 75 cm in length. In some areas farmers prefer 2-3 year old and 1 m long branches for propagation. After removing the bark the exposed wood and the cut surface is covered with a rooting media consisting of clayey soil mixed with sand and organic manure (rotten cowdung). A piece of polythene or jute cloth of convenient size is wrapped around the rooting media and tied at both ends with fine twine. In about 2 months sufficient roots are formed at the upper end of the ring. The rooted layer is then detached from the mother plant by giving it a sharp cut below the lower end of the ring, preferably in 2-3 stages. A single cut operation sometimes results in high mortality of the layers. Excess branches and leaves should be removed to bring a proper balance between the top and root system. This helps in quick establishment of roots and low mortality rate of the layers. The rooted layers are then kept in a shady place in the nursery in a slanting position for about a week and then potted. The potted plants are also kept in partial shade, preferably under a shade net. Success in air layering mainly depends on factors like time of operation, availability of moisture at the rooting area, growth stage of the terminal branch and age of the twig. Vigorous twigs or branches in active growth phase should be selected. The best time for air layering is July after the harvest of lychee when the available moisture in the soil and humidity are high. The rooting medium consisting of clay loam soil and well rotted cowdung (1:1) has been found to be best. At present lychee marcottages are produced in about 70 Government own nurseries having mother orchards of China-3, Bombai, Rajshahi, Mongolbari and Mujaffarpuri varieties. Most of the mother orchards were established in the

1960s. Since the private nursery seldom owns any mother trees, Government nurseries are the main supplier of lychee planting materials. Production of vegetatively propagated lychee planting materials in the public sector is about 90,000 per annum. No data regarding the production of lychee marcottage in the private nursery or farmers level is available, but is undoubtedly insignificant. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF ORCHARDS Orchard establishment of lychee is not an easy task for the farmers, since in Bangladesh the mortality rate of lychee after planting is high. This is due to the supply of non-hardened planting material and lack of proper care at the time of planting and afterwards. Land Preparation For lychee cultivation deep well-drained loamy soil having a pH 6.5-6.8 is suitable, although lychee is not fastidious about its soil requirements and in Bangladesh it grows in all types of soil. However, it performs better in deep sandy loam soil. The selected land should be flood free, open and under direct sunshine. After selection the land should be ploughed 2-3 times and a green manure crop cultivated to add to the soil to increase its organic content. Sesbania rostrata andCrotalaria juncea are the common green manure crops used in Bangladesh to improve the physical condition of the soil and soil fertility. In hilly areas lychees are planted in small hills with gentle slopes on terraces along the contours. When planted on terraces the soil is not ploughed, and only small half moon pits are made to keep the soil undisturbed. Bushes and other wild vegetation are cleared above the ground before plantation is made. Planting season The planting of lychee is generally done during June-July, i.e. during the rainy season, but the best planting time is May-June when the weather is humid but not too wet or too dry. Planting may also be done after the rainy season, i.e. August-September, but regular irrigation is required for better establishment of the orchard. Spacing and planting system adopted In old orchards lychee trees were planted 10-12 m apart both ways, i.e. in rows and between plants in rows. The spacing of 10 m is found to be adequate in areas where the soil is deep loam and fertile and when necessary care is taken during the initial stage of cultivation. In other areas 7-8 m distance was found to be sufficient. At present high density plantation has also started. In the case of high density planting the spacing is 4 m x 4 m.

The general planting system practiced in Bangladesh is the square system in the plains and the contour system in the hills. The square system of plantation allows the farmers to perform all the cultural operations conveniently and also to cultivate some vegetables as intercrops during the first few years. Opening of pits and planting Before planting the recommended pits of 0.75 x 0.75 x 0.75 m dimension should be dug at the desired place two weeks before the actual planting. These are allowed to remain open for 10-12 days and then filled with topsoil mixed with manure and fertilizer at the rate of 30 kg well decomposed cowdung, 10 kg ash, 0.15 kg N, 0.30 kg P2O5 and 0.20 kg K2O. The pits are then watered so that the soil settles down. At the planting time a small hole is made at the centre of the refilled pit and the desired air-layer is planted. Water should be applied immediately after planting. It is also suggested to add a basket full of soil per pit collected from an established lychee orchard. Intercrops Common intercrops during the early years are vegetables and as soon as the canopy becomes larger, i.e. after 6-7 years and onward up to 15 to 20 years, turmeric and ginger are cultivated. During the pre-bearing stage leguminous crops like cowpea and beans are recommended for cultivation, which enrich soil nitrogen. 6. CARE AND MANAGEMENT OF ORCHARDS Training and pruning of plants : Training of lychee trees during the early years is necessary for building a good framework, but farmers seldom practice training. Branches developing from the main trunk should be allowed in all the four directions. Once the desirable shape and good framework is achieved, light annual pruning of old branches is only required to induce new growth. Since lychee flowers are borne mostly on the current years growth regular light pruning is essential for good yield. Pruning of old branches will promote new growth, resulting in more flowering and fruiting. In Bangladesh farmers never prune bearing trees but the objective of pruning is achieved during harvesting, when a portion of branch bearing fruits is removed. Heavy pruning is to be avoided, except in the case of too much vegetative growth, when heavy shoot pruning is recommended. Root pruning to a depth of 5 cm is also helpful for floral initiation. Application of manure and fertilizer Manuring and fertilization are important considerations in the upkeep of a lychee orchard. In Bangladesh manuring and fertilization are generally neglected, even

though in lychee the nutrient requirement is high including high doses of organic matter. Application of cowdung or farmyard manure in sufficient quantity helps the young lychee plant to grow quickly. Nitrogen is the major nutrient required by lychee. The deficiency of nitrogen results in stunted tree growth and small and pale green leaves. It was reported that nitrogen has a profound influence on fruit set, fruit retention, length, diameter and weight of fruit. Lychee also needs a substantial quantity of potassium and phosphorous for its proper growth and yield along with micronutrients like zinc, boron and copper. Considering the nutrient requirements the following fertilizer doses are recommended for lychee. Fertilizer recommendation before planting:

Cowdung 30.00 Kg/pit Ash 10.00 Kg/pit N 0.15 Kg/pit (or Urea - 326.00 g/pit) P2O5 0.30 Kg/pit (or TSP - 667.00 g/pit) K2O 0.20 Kg/pit (or MP - 333.00 g/pit) a. All cowdung, ash, phosphorus and potassium should be thoroughly mixed with the soil and placed in the pit. b. Ten to twelve days later the trees can be transplanted. c. Five to six months after transplanting nitrogen should be applied. d. Fertilizers should be applied annually in split applications-one half in the month of March and the remainder in September until the tree is fruiting. Rates of application should be increased each year by 0.05, 0.20, and 0.125 kg of N, P2O5 and K2O, respectively, over the previous year.

Fertilizer recommendation for fruiting tree:

Cowdung 7.00 Kg/tree Ash 8.00 Kg/tree N 0.70 Kg/tree (or Urea - 1.50 g/plant) P2O5 0.30 Kg/tree (or TSP - 3.30 g/plant) K2O 0.20 Kg/tree (or MP - 1.15 g/plant) a. Trees should be fertilized annually in a split application. One half of all fertilizer should be broadcast around the tree and lightly incorporated in March.

b. Remaining half of the fertilizer should be similarly applied in September. Weeding Weeds are generally controlled manually through hand weeding or hoeing during early years of plantation. At later stages, weeds seldom grow under the big overlapping canopy and are controlled during application of fertilizer and irrigation. Chemical weedicides are not used in lychee plantation. Mulching In lychee orchards mulching is generally practised once/twice in a year in association with the application of fertilizer, weeding and irrigation. However, in young plantations mulching is a common practice for conserving soil moisture and control of weed growth. Dried leaves, compost/cowdung or straw are generally used as mulch. The use of mulch in young lychee plantations was found to be helpful for better growth of the young trees and quick establishment of the orchard. Supplementary irrigation In Bangladesh supplementary irrigation is considered necessary during flowering, fruit setting and development since during these periods the soil moisture and atmospheric humidity remains very low. At the time of flowering the temperature in most of the regions of Bangladesh remains within 27 - 28, but it increases afterwards and transpiration rises considerably. Generally no supplementary irrigation is given to bearing trees as a result of which moisture stress due to prolonged periods of drought causes yield reduction through fruit drop. Very few farmers can afford to irrigate during the fruiting period, due to high demand and priority of irrigation for the Boro (Summer) rice crops. In most of the lychee growing area surface water for irrigation is seldom available. In addition ground water level goes down due to the prolonged dry period making shallow tubewells inoperative, which also restricts irrigation to the orchards. Young plants also suffer during this period due to shortage of water resulting in poor growth, and sometimes death. In better managed Government orchards irrigation is given twice during flowering and after fruit set, utilizing either basin or flood systems. The common practice is single irrigation after the application of fertilizers, immediately after fruit set. Supplementary irrigation at fortnightly intervals after fruit set gives good harvest. Control of pests and diseases Lychee does not suffer from any serious pests or diseases in Bangladesh, but bats and birds cause serious damage at the ripening stage of fruit.

Lychee mite and fruit borer are the two major insect pests of lychee. Lychee mite In Bangladesh eriophid (Aceria litchi) is the most destructive pest of the lychee tree. Both adults and nymphs infest the leaves. New leaves of the lychee trees are infested by the lychee mite and such infested leaves, at later stages of their growth, show leaf galls (known as erinose), which are thickened and wrinkled with abnormal hairs that are velvety brown in appearance. Infested leaves later dry up and fall from the trees. Inflorescences, flower buds and young fruits are also infested by the lychee mite. Twigs with severe infestation of leaves bear few inflorescences and fruits. The loss of large number of leaves due to severe mite infestations may affect yield in the following year because of the reduction in photosynthetic activities, though general loss of green leaves due to the mite infestation is mostly compensated by frequent flushes of new leaves in the affected twigs. All varieties of lychee are susceptible to infestation by the lychee mite and trees having dense foliage show more severe infestations. There may be 10 to 12 overlapping generations of the lychee mite in a year. Lychee mites are found in both the adult and nymphal stages in the infested leaves at varying ratios throughout the year. Their populations remain very low from November to the middle of February. The population reaches its peak in April - May. Adults are mostly seen in infested leaves during February-March and June to August. The lychee mites spread from one tree to another by movement through the soil and touching leaves of adjacent trees. The infestation starts in February, becomes maximum in May-June and continues up to October. Controls are:

Pruning and burning of affected twigs in June and August each year in severely infested trees and pruning and burning of affected twigs in August in less infested trees repeatedly for 2 to 3 years was found to be very effective in controlling the lychee mite. Spraying of lychee leaves during April and May with Kelthane 40 MF or Neoron 500 EC or Torque 50 EC or wettable sulphur at the rate of 2.0 ml/litre of water will be helpful for the control of the lychee mite. Three species of predaceous spider mites (Tetranychus spp.) have been reported to predate on different stages of the lychee mite in Bangladesh, but their role as effective natural enemies in the control of the lychee mite has not been established.

Lychee fruit borer

The lychee fruit borer is a common insect pest of lychee in Bangladesh. Only one larva of the fruit borer moth bores into a developing fruit from the stem end and feeds on the seed. A portion of the fruit pulp at the stem end is also spoiled due to the larva feeding on the seed. Varietal resistance to the insect pest may be helpful for its control. Insecticides can also be used for the control of this insect pest. Cypermethrin (Ripcord/Cymbush/Basathrin/ Arrivo/other) 10 EC at the rate of 1.0 ml/litre of water can be sprayed on fruits 15-20 days before ripening of the fruits for the control of the lychee fruit borer. Caterpillar The next important insect pest of lychee is the bark eating caterpillar (Indarbela tetraonis). The adult moth of this pest lays eggs during May and June in groups of 15-25, which hatch after 8-11 days. The larvae feed on the surface of the bark until September. Afterwards they bore into bark and underlying tissues in the branches. These become fully grown in December and pupate in April. Plugging the holes with fumigants such as carbon bisulphide, petroleum or formalin and then plastering with mud checks the caterpillars effectively. 7. HARVESTING OF FRUITS AND YIELDS The quality of fruit, particularly the characteristic taste and flavour, TSS, acid, etc. of a variety depends on the stage of harvest. Lychee should be harvested when the fruits ripen properly, because, unlike mango, lychee does not improve in quality after harvest. Maturity of fruit is judged by colour development, flatness of tubercles and comparative smoothness of the epicarp. The fruit colour changes from greenish to pinkish red. The development of red pigmentation was found to be associated with anthocyanin pigment. Generally fruit are harvested at about 55 - 60 days after the fruit set but it varies with the variety and environment. In Bangladesh harvesting is done in May-June. Fruits are harvested in bunches with few leaves. Since all the fruits on a tree do not ripen at the same time, the fruit clusters are spot picked several times. In Bangladesh fruiting lychee trees are generally sold to the middlemen before maturity, in order to get rid of the problem of bats and birds. The middlemen normally harvest all the lychees at a time and do not take care of the plants during harvesting. The indiscriminate breakage of branches injures the trees. The lychee tree starts giving yield from the age of 5 years and the yield increases until they are 20 to 30 years old. In Bangladesh 60-70 years old lychee trees were found to give satisfactory yield. The variety wise average yields of 15-20 years old good lychee trees are given below.
Sl. No. Variety 1. Bombai 2. Madrajie 3. China-3 4. Bedana Yield/plant 7000 - 8000 nos. 6000 - 7000 nos. 4000 - 5000 nos. 2000 - 3000 nos.

Fruit quality of Bombai, China-3 and Bedana varieties is the best among the available land races. The recently released BARI Lichu-3 resembles China-3 in size, shape, quality and taste, but is yet to be distributed to the farmers. The yield of good variety lychee in Bangladesh is as good as in India, but the national average yield of lychee is far less. 8. MARKETING Lychee is a highly perishable fruit and as a result without proper post harvest practices marketing of lychee is very difficult. In Bangladesh lychee is mainly sold at local or nearby markets in fresh form, except for high quality lychee, which fetch good prices in big cities and are brought from the distant lychee growing areas in bamboo baskets lined with lychee leaves. Lychee fruits remain fresh in such baskets packed loosely for about 48 hours. For distant city markets the fruits are harvested in the afternoon at the stage when they have just started to turn red. The harvested fruits are then packed in the field in a small basket and reach the wholesale market during night from where the fruits are distributed to the retailer. Lychee is neither exported nor imported. Although the local production can barely meet the need, unlike other fruits lychee is not imported. Perhaps this is because of the fact that lychee fruits are still a commodity sold mostly in street side markets where adequate storage facilities for keeping fresh lychee are not available. 9. POTENTIAL FOR LYCHEE PRODUCTION DEVELOPMENT Good quality lychee is produced in the northwest region of Bangladesh covering 16 districts, hill tracts consisting of three districts and in Jessore, Tangail and Dhaka. At present production of quality lychee is mainly concentrated in certain areas from where marketing is done with comparative ease. Infrastructure facilities for post-harvest handling can be easily created in these areas. The lychee area can easily be expanded with good varieties in the flood free areas of the northwest, hill tracts and in Dhaka and Tangail districts. Northwest region Lychee covers about 3,500 acres of land in the northwest region, which can easily be expended to at least 14,000 acres. Currently, the maximum concentrations of lychee orchards are in the districts of Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Pabna and Bogra. There is ample scope for expansion of area in Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, Panchagarh and Rangpur, where quality lychee covers only 1-3 percent of the present lychee area. The present yield of average quality lychee in this area is about 4.5 to 5.5 MT/ha. If proper management practices like fertilizer and irrigation management are adopted, the yield of good quality lychee like Bedana and China-3 can be increased substantially.

Hill Tracts Very good quality lychee grows in the Chittagong hill tracts area but the rate of expansion is extremely slow, which may be due to prevailing social unrest and difficulty in establishing new orchards. The present area under lychee is 295 acres in Rangamati, 245 acres in Khagrachari and 155 acres in Bandarban. This area can easily be expanded to a few thousand acres. The only limitation for the expansion of lychee in the area is inadequate irrigation facilities, which may be overcome by carefully choosing the expansion area and better management of residual soil moisture. Dhaka and Tangail At present the area under lychee in these two districts are 720 and 390 acres, respectively. There is a good scope for expansion of area and replacement of inferior quality orchards with the best available varieties. The lychee area in these two districts can be expanded to more than 1,500 acres. The climate is quite congenial for growth and fruiting of lychee and in certain areas farmers are growing lychee on a commercial basis. 10. CONSTRAINTS IN LYCHEE PRODUCTION DEVELOPMENT Improved varieties It has already been mentioned that Bedana and China-3 are the two good varieties available in Bangladesh. The area under Bedana is only a few acres and that of China-3 is not more than 100 acres. Bedana grows only in Dinajpur district. China-3 was found to perform satisfactorily in other areas, except where rain starts earlier. Consequently, introduction of more good quality varieties suitable for the potential areas will be helpful in increasing lychee production. Short production season Lychee reaches the market during May-June. Sour and inferior lychee comes early followed by Bombai. Bedana comes in the last week of June followed by China-3. This short production season of good quality lychee may be extended by introducing early and late maturing varieties. Quality planting material Lychee marcottage are mostly produced in the Government horticulture centres where the quality control system is far from standard. In the private sector the situation is worse. As a result farmers very often do not get high quality planting material of the expected variety. On the other hand Bedana lychee growers do not produce planting material from their mother orchard for sale. They only

produce propagules for themselves, which is restricting the expansion of Bedana variety. Inappropriate pruning Pruning is seldom practised in Bangladesh, except in young plants. In fruit bearing trees pruning is achieved at the time of harvesting, when a portion of the branch is removed from the plant along with the fruit. Generally, harvesting is done by the labourers of the middlemen (marketing agent) who climb on the fruiting plant for harvesting, remove a sizeable portion of a branch along with the fruits they find suitable for quick harvest rather than taking care of the fruiting plant. Due to such type of indirect and inappropriate pruning the lychee plants suffer, resulting in poor yield thereafter. Lack of technical know-how Usually lychee farmers do not pay attention to modern cultural management practices like irrigation and fertilization and are not aware of application of hormones, good propagation techniques and post harvest handling. Some of the growers who are slightly conscious add cowdung or farmyard manure and provide irrigation once in a while. Due to inadequate care and management lychee plants show alternate bearing habit and after a good harvest yield is reduced to half or even less in the following years. Extension personnel also do not have adequate technical knowledge and skill to help the farmers. Their lack of knowledge on the establishment of orchards, propagation techniques, cultural management, etc. is also contributing to the low yield and slow expansion of the lychee area in Bangladesh. In fact the present extension personnel are mostly trained in cereal production technology and management. As a result the horticulture crops gets less attention. Block supervisors who are the grass root level extension agents do not get training on the propagation techniques, establishment of new orchards, pest management, management of lychee orchard and post-harvest handling. In order to give priority to the development of lychee and the fruit industry as a whole either a separate development organisation needs to be formed or separate horticulture based extension services within the present extension department should be developed. In this way human resource development as well as an adequate extension service in the field of horticulture will be ensured. 11. GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PLANS FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF LYCHEE Bangladesh Agriculture Research Institute (BARI) has released two lychee varieties through selection from their collection of lychee in Akbarpur regional research centre, Sylhet and one from Rajshahi station. The Characteristics of the varieties are described in Table 3.

Table 3. Characteristics of Lychee varieties released from BARI

Name of Salient Features Station with time of release BARI Binodpur High yielding, regular bearer, exceptionally early, edible Lichu-1 (Rajshahi) portion 67-73%. TSS 18.4 to 20.5% and borer Sept/96 infestation minimum. Yield 85-97 kg/tree/year. Individual fruit weight 19.5 g. BARI Akbarpur High yielding, late maturing, regular and heavy bearer, Lichu-2 fruit pink red, pleasant flavour and tolerant to nut-borer and mites. Yield 32-44 kg/tree/year. Edible portion 68.4%. TSS 16.1% to 20.5% Individual fruit weight 15.2 g. BARI Akbarpur High yielding, mid season variety, small seed, edible Lichu-3 Sept/96 portion 75-77% and tolerant to rust and other diseases. Yield 30-42 kg/tree/year, TSS 18.9% and individual fruit weight 18.4 g. Variety Remarks Rajshahi region

Eastern regions of Bangladesh

Eastern regions of Bangladesh

The performance of the released varieties in other lychee growing areas of the country has yet to be evaluated. BARI conducted some experiments on the fertilizer requirements of the existing varieties. Under the Integrated Horticulture and Nutrition Development Project a demonstration on the improved management of lychee orchards including the control of fruit dropping by application of NAA in the Government horticulture centres is underway. Farmers from the lychee growing areas will be invited to a field day to see the results of the demonstration. In the next year demonstrations will be conducted in the farmers existing lychee orchards and participating farmers will be given training on lychee orchard management. It is expected that this will help in the development of lychee in Bangladesh. Also, it is planned to multiply a large number of promising varieties like China-3 for planting in the homesteads in certain lychee growing areas of Bangladesh. 12. CONCLUSIONS Lychee is one of the most popular fruits of Bangladesh and good quality lychee fetches a fancy price. Local demand for fresh lychee is very high, which can hardly be met by the present production. The agro-climatic condition of the country is conducive for successful production of good quality lychee and the present area can easily be doubled. However, expansion of lychee is very slow, mainly due to unavailability of high quality planting material and poor establishment of air layered plants. The knowledge and skill of the farmers as well the extension agents regarding improved production technologies are inadequate for the establishment of a lychee industry. The varietal base of is also too narrow. In some areas early rain during flowering reduces fruit formation. Considering the present constraints and opportunities the following actions may be undertaken immediately.

Introduction/selection of high quality lychee varieties of early mid and late maturity. Intensive training of the farmers and extension agent on the modern methods of lychee cultivation, management and orchard management. Production and distribution of quality planting materials. Proper pre- and post-harvest operations.