High Density Planting System in Mango-Prospects and Problems

High density planting (5 x 5 m) or ultra high density planting system (3 x 2 m) aims to make maximum use of land to achieve high yields in the early periods of the orchard along with ease in its management. This system warrants adoption of certain important technologies like formative pruning in the initial years so as to have desirable plant architecture, proper canopy management annually to encourage vegetative growth immediate after harvest, stopping of the vegetative growth during September to favour fruit bud initiation and differentiation. Further, adoption of drip irrigation system so as to replenish the loss of moisture through evapo-transpiration and providing nutrients at required quantity at appropriate doses through fertigation technique are highly essential to get higher yield with quality fruits. Case studies wherein orchards planted under HDP or UHDP but without adopting the mandatory techniques, resulting in poor yield and more pest and disease incidences were discussed.