Optimizing Litchi Production through Integrated Shoot Pruning and Potassium Sprays

Litchi (Litchi chinensis) is a subtropical evergreen fruit tree that requires specific environmental and physiological conditions to induce flowering. The process of flowering in litchi is regulated by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental factors and cultural management practices. Early post-harvest pruning combined with the application of nutrients like KNO ₃ can enhance flowering by promoting the development of mature shoots and reducing winter flushing. The present experiment was therefore, conducted with the objective to study the influence of pruning intensity, pruning time and KNO3 sprays on vegetative growth, flowering, yield and quality of litchi fruit cv. Rose Scented. The treatments included three factors: pruning time (29th June, 11th July, 23rd July and 4th August), pruning intensity (20 cm and 40 cm) and KNO₃ sprays (2% and 4%) which were compared against control. The findings revealed that early post-harvest pruning (29th June ), combined with a pruning intensity of 40 cm and two sprays of 4% KNO₃ resulted in moderate vegetative growth, early fruit set, reduction in fruit drop and fruit burn while enhancing yield and fruit quality parameters in the next fruiting season.