Guava cultivation is widespread across various regions, and some varieties bear fruit year-round. However, winter poses several challenges for farmers, which can impact production. By adopting the right agricultural practices, farmers can achieve a good yield even in colder months. Here are some crucial steps for effective guava orchard management in winter.
Selecting cold-tolerant varieties is essential for successful winter cultivation. Varieties such as ‘Lucknow 49,’ ‘Allahabad Safeda,’ and ‘Sardar’ are well-suited for North India. These varieties ensure better yield and plant health even in low temperatures.
Light pruning helps remove dead and diseased branches, improving air circulation and sunlight penetration. This encourages the growth of new shoots, enhancing fruit quality.
Soil Management: Before winter, test the soil and apply organic manure or compost. This helps maintain moisture, control weeds, and balance soil temperature, ensuring optimal plant growth.
Optimal Irrigation Practices: During winter, guava trees require less water. Avoid excessive irrigation; instead, provide deep watering during dry spells while preventing waterlogging. A drip irrigation system is highly effective during this season as it ensures precise moisture delivery to the roots.
Balanced Fertilizer Application: A well-balanced fertilizer schedule is crucial for guava plants in winter. Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-based fertilizers. Use half of the required fertilizers before winter and the remaining during the flowering stage to promote healthy plant growth.
Pest and Disease Control: Regular monitoring helps prevent infestations of fruit flies and mealybugs. Use neem oil and organic pesticides for natural pest control. Removing fallen fruits and debris helps keep the orchard clean and minimizes the risk of diseases.
Protection Against Cold Temperatures: Young guava plants should be covered with polyhouses or protective covers to shield them from extreme cold. Windbreaks around the orchard can help reduce the impact of cold winds.
Proper Harvesting and Storage: Harvest guavas when they are fully mature but still firm. After harvesting, wash and sort the fruits properly before storing them at suitable temperatures. Proper storage enhances shelf life and reduces post-harvest losses.
