Effect of Fertigation on Flowering and Physico-chemical Responses of Guava in the Lower Shiwalik Foothills of Punjab, India

Abstract

Background and Aim: Guava (Psidium guajava L.), often referred to as the ‘Apple of Tropics,’ is a vital fruit crop in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide. This study focused on a sub-mountainous, undulating terrain with high cultivation costs and no permanent water sources, aiming to optimize fertilizer efficiency, enhance fruit yield and quality, and conserve water for future generations. Drip irrigation recognized as effective method for delivering water and nutrients, results in reduced water usage while, improving fruit quality. The research investigated the effects of fertigation on the phenological and physico-chemical responses of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda in the lower Shiwalik belt of Punjab. Study Design: The experimental trial utilized a simple randomized block design with ten different treatments replicated thrice. Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted at Fruit Research Fram, Dr D R Bhumbla Regional Research Station, Ballowal Saunkhri, Balachaur, SBS Nagar, Punjab. The trial was conducted for duration of nine months. Methodology: The experiment comprised of 10 different treatment viz. T1 - I1F1 (100% of PE + 100% RDF), T2 – I1F2 (100% of PE + 75% RDF), T3 – I1F3 (100% of PE + 50% RDF), T4 – I2F1 (80% of PE + 100% RDF), T5 - I2F2 (80% of PE + 75% RDF), T6 - I2F3 (80% of PE + 50% RDF), T7 – I3F1 (60% of PE + 100% RDF), T8 - I3F2 (60% of PE + 75% RDF), T9 - I3F3 (60% of PE + 50% RDF) and T0 - control (no fertigation) and replicated thrice. The data were recorded and analyzed as per standard procedures. Results: The results showed significant improvements in phenological traits viz., date of initiation & period of vegetative bud emergence, date of initiation & period of flower bud initiation, date of initiation & period of peak flowering, date of initiation & period of fruit set; and date of initiation & period of fruit maturity. Additionally, the fruit's physico-chemical properties were also enhanced, yielding higher Vitamin C and pectin content, along with lower titratable acidity. Conclusion: This work underscores the importance of efficient water and nutrient management for sustainable guava production and improved nutritional security in agriculturally challenged areas.