Peach
Peach (Prunus
persica) is a temperate fruit rich in proteins, sugar, minerals and
vitamins. Introduction of the cultivated peaches probably took place in the
latter half of the 19th century. Today, it is being grown in the midhill zone
of the Himalayas extending from Jammu and Kashmir to Khasi hills 1,000–2,000m
above mean sea-level. Low-chilling peaches are grown in submountaineous region
and Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh. It is also being grown to
a limited scale in the hills of south India and in the north-eastern region of
the country.
Climate and Soil
Peaches require humid climate with cold winter
and dry summer. It is moderately winter hardy and sensitive to low temperature
injury. Swelling buds are injured at –6.5°C. Sites which are free from early
spring frost are more suitable as peaches bloom early in the season. The
blooming period can be delayed by the application of Gibberellic acid (200ppm)
before leaf fall or by application of Ethephon, to avoid the risk of spring
frost. Deep valleys are not ideal sites because cold air settles in these
areas, and frost and freeze injuries are very common. The land with gentle
slope is ideal. However, on steep slopes peach should be planted preferably in
the mid portion.
Deep sandy loam soil rich in organic matter is
best for its successful cultivation. Peaches are highly susceptible to
waterlogging and prefer perfect drainage. Fertile and heavy soils are
hazardous as it makes heavy growth and hence results in winter injury. The pH
of the soil should be between 5.8 and 6.8. Acidic and saline soils are unfit
for peach cultivation.
No comments:
Post a Comment