Performance of Kinnow mandarin on different rootstocks under arid-irrigated region of Punjab

Rootstock trials were conducted on Kinnow mandarin using four rootstocks, viz. Jatti Khatti (Citrus jambhiri Lush), Karna Khatta (C. karna), Troyer and Carrizo citrange [Poncirus trifoliata × C. sinensis (L.) Obseck] at Regional Fruit Research Station, Abohar, during 1968. Pooled mean of fruit yield of 20 years was maximum (836 fruits, 151 kg/tree) on Jatti Khatti, whereas it was minimum (620 fruits, 109 kg/tree) on Troyer rootstock. Maximum TSS (11.74%) was recorded in fruits on Troyer and Carrizo rootstocks. On the basis of 20 years data from 12 to 31 years of tree age, it was concluded that Kinnow mandarin trees on Jatti Khatti rootstock have longer tree life, good health, fruit yield and quality. Peak period for yield remained when trees were in the age group of 18–23 years. Karna Khatta, Troyer and Carrizo rootstock combinations remained satisfactory from 12 to 17 years of tree age and thereafter they gradually declined.