Effect of different mulch types on canopy temperature, soil misture content, growth, yield and quality of cherry (Prunus avium)

An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different mulches on canopy temperature, soil moisture content, growth, yield and quality of cherry (Prunus avium L.) during 2009–11 at CITH, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Twenty-one selections of Bigarreau Noir Grossa (Mishri), Bigarreau Napoleon (Double), Guigne Pourpera Precoca (Awal Number), Guigne Noir Hative (Makhmali), Lambert and Lapins were planted at 2.5 cm × 2.5 m spacing for evaluation. Maximum trunk circumference (47.44 cm) was reported in Makhmali (V4) and inorganic mulch (M2). Maximum tree height (2.62 m), annual shoot extension (74.88 cm), fruit weight (8.30 g) and fruit length (24.81) were observed in treatment combination of Makhmali(V4) and organic mulch (M1). The mean comparison of combined treatments of variety and mulch type showed that inorganic mulch (M2) showed positive effects on primary branch girth. The interaction effect of Stella (V1) and organic mulch resulted in highest yield/plant (13.24 kg) and total soluble solids (18.80°Brix).