Some initial results of improvement of neglected mango orchards in Coc Lac hamlet, Yen Chau district, Son La province

Abstract

Neglected mango orchards with high canopy, low yields, heavy infection by anthracnose and fruit flies were popular in Yen chau district. Low yield and erratic fruit bearing were common for the orchards. It was also difficult to take care of them. Post-harvest pruning of these orchards in combination with application of fertilizers and pest control promoted autumn shoots growth and reduced pest infection of these shoots. All pruned trees gave profuse blossoms in next spring. Continuing to apply fertilizers and pest control on pruned trees improved fruit set and fruit weight in both cultivars Tron and Hoi, finally leading to yield increase in both cultivars compared with the controls. Chelated foliar fertilizer called Pomior has proved positive effect on shoot and fruit growth. Pre-harvest bagging could improve fruit external quality due to preventing mango fruits from pest infection. When these cultural practices were applied together, local people could get more effects on crop yield and fruit external quality. Keeping annual pruning will reduce canopy height for easy caring of the orchards and for a shift from extensive cultivation to more intensive one. As a result, the productivity of mango production in Yen chau district is  improved.