Clay Mineral Application and its Effect on Establishment and Growth of Custard Apple in Alfisols of Semi-Arid Environment

Abstract

A study was conducted to assess the effects of clay mineral application @ 0, 1.2, 2.4 and 4.8 kg/pit on different morphological and physiological parameters in custard apple under Alfisols in semi-arid conditions. There was no significant effect of clay mineral on height and spread in both North-South and East-West directions of custard apple trees up to 300 days after planting (DAP); while it had a significant effect at 439 and 704 DAP for height and number of branches; and canopy spread. A similar impact was noticed in case of stomatal conductance and relative water content and canopy temperature at 158 DAP. Height was significantly related with number of branches (439 and 704 DAP); north-south and east-west spread (704 DAP); and girth (704 DAP). Number of branches had a significant relation with north-south and east-west spread (704 DAP); girth (704 DAP). Significant relations of east-west and north-south spread (704 DAP) with girth; stomatal conductance and relative water content at 158 DAP were observed. Height was significantly related with number of branches, while rainfall was related with height and number of branches. Based on regression analysis, the influence of clay minerals on different parameters was assessed. Application of 4.8 kg/pit of clay mineral was found to be efficient in improving height and number of branches of custard apple under Alfisols in semi-arid conditions.