Effect of pruning on growth, flowering and fruiting in mango

The number of panicles were almost double on each shoot when ‘on’ year trees were pruned in July, August and December. Number of terminal panicles on pruned shoots were more than the control in July-August pruning and December pruning produced auxiliary panicles only, whereas July-August pruning increased both terminal and auxiliary panicles on pruned shoots. The panicle length was also higher than the control when pruned in July and August without any such effect after pruning in other months, except in September pruning where panicle length was reduced. The main rachis diameter was also less in auxiliary panicles after pruning in November and December. Hermaphrodite flowers slightly increased in July, November and December pruning. Shoot pruning completely controlled malformation when done in July, August and December. Data, therefore suggest that ‘on’ year mango trees should be pruned in July, August and December for increasing panicles on a shoot, hermaphrodite flowers in panicles, control malformation and fruit yield and quality. However, ‘off’ year trees need pruning to increases new shoot production and more vegetative growth without flowering and fruiting in the same year.