According to Dr. Ratan Kumar, a scientist at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Bikramganj, Rohtas, the presence of dry, weak, diseased, and unnecessary branches on old mango trees negatively impacts their overall productivity. By undertaking a scientific rejuvenation process for such trees, their ability to bear fruit can be significantly restored to a large extent.
Pruning and Protective Treatment
The first step in this rejuvenation procedure involves cutting away the old, dry, damaged, and redundant branches of the tree. Subsequently, a paste of copper oxychloride is applied to the cut surfaces to minimize the risk of fungal infections. To control potential pest and disease infestations, a solution of imidacloprid 17.8 percent EC should be prepared at a rate of approximately 1 milliliter per liter of water and sprayed over the plants.
Organic Manure and Seasonal Timing
Dr. Ratan Kumar notes that the monsoon season is considered the ideal time for the rejuvenation of old mango orchards. During this period, along with pruning the branches, providing adequate organic manure and essential nutrients to the trees is crucial. He explained that the quantity of compost should be determined according to the age of the plant, where applying about 1 kg for a one-year-old plant, 2 kg for a two-year-old plant, and around 10 kg for trees aged 10 years or more proves beneficial.
Application of Chemical Fertilizers
About a month after applying the compost, it is also necessary to provide essential chemical fertilizers to the trees. According to Dr. Ratan Kumar, determining the exact amounts of urea, DAP, and potash based on the age and size of the plant is appropriate. For instance, a quantity of about 100 grams of urea, 75 grams of DAP, and 60 grams of potash is recommended for a one-year-old plant. As the tree grows older, the nutrient quantities can be increased in the same proportion, though for large and old trees, the actual quantity is best decided based on soil testing, the tree condition, and advice from a local agricultural expert.
Comprehensive Orchard Management
Experts emphasize that instead of merely providing water and manure, it is essential to combine proper branch pruning, pest and disease management, and balanced nutrition simultaneously for old mango trees. Adopting this procedure at the right time encourages new branches to sprout and enhances the productivity potential of the orchard.
Saving Old Orchards from Felling
Therefore, if the trees in your mango orchard are many years old and their fruit yields have declined, there is no need to cut them down assuming they are useless. Through scientific rejuvenation, old orchards can be made green and productive once again.
