Response of Perlka (Calcium cynamide) on Plant Growth and Production of Kinnow Mandarin(C.nobilis XC.deliciosa)in Sub Montane Low Hill Zone of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Perlka, a multifunctional fertilizer was tested in kinnow mandarin as a soil application at four different doses, 500 g, 1000 g, 1500 g and 2000 g per tree and its effect on plant growth and production was compared against the soil application of CAN (800 g and 1600 g/tree). Perlka and CAN were applied during the month of February & May in two equal splits. Effect of Perlka application on annual shoot extension, fruit production and fruit quality was recorded. Annual shoot extension in kinnow mandarin was observed significantly more with the Perlka treatment 1000 g per tree when compared to other Perlka treatment (500 g, 1500 g and 2000 g) and as well as the CAN application. Significant improvement in response to soil application of Perlka (1000 g) when compared to other Perlka treatments including the application of CAN was observed for fruit size, fruit weight and fruit volume. Biochemical analysis of fruits showed variable results for total soluble content of kinnow fruits in response to different treatment. Maximum TSS (10.3° B) was observed with the treatment of 800 g CAN and 2000 g Perlka individually. Maximum fruit yield (32.18 Kg) per tree was obtained with 1000 g Perlka application followed by 1600 g CAN. Perlka application at 1000 g per tree resulted in significant improvement in annual shoot growth and tree health particularly by exhibiting resistance against collar rot and root rot fungi caused by Phtopthora citrophora, Phtopthora nicotiane in all of the trees receiving perlka in comparison to CAN treatments, fruit yield and other fruit quality parameters of the fruits in kinnow mandarin. The highest BC ratio of 3.5 was obtained in trees of kinnow mandarin treated with 1000g of perlka per tree.