Impact Assessment of Pruning and High-Density Planting on Fruit Quality, Yield Attributes, and Vegetative Characteristics in Litchi Cv. ‘Shahi’
摘要
This study evaluated the effects of different pruning levels on a ‘Shahi’ variety litchi tree for its fruit quality, yield attributes and vegetative characteristics. The primary objective was to determine the optimal pruning height for enhancing fruit quality and yield. Methodologically, the pruning treatments included four levels: 2 m, 2.5 m, and 3 m above ground level, and a control with no pruning. The most intensive pruning (2 m above ground) resulted in superior outcomes, including increased fruit size (42.59 mm length and 36.24 mm diameter), fruit weight (21.94 g), number of fruits per panicle (22.26), and overall yield (41.46 kg/plant). Quality parameters such as titratable acidity (0.42%), total soluble solids (TSS) (19.18 °Brix), TSS ratio (45.48), and total phenolics of pulp (45.64 mg/100 ml) were also maximized with the 2‑m pruning level. The study concluded that pruning a 2‑m height is the optimal standard for a high-density planting system (6 m × 4 m), ensuring higher yields and improved fruit quality. The discussion highlights the significant impact of pruning intensity on both physical and quality attributes of the fruit, crucial for the local market. This research provides valuable insights for horticultural practices and offers a future perspective on enhancing productivity for farmers and advancing grafting technology in litchi cultivation.