Vol. 11, Issue 3 (2022)

Author(s):
J Rajangam, C Sankar and M Uma Maheswari

Abstract:
A trial was conducted to optimize spacing for mechanization in Sapota cv. PKM 4 to obtain higher yield per unit area at Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam during 2018-2021 under different double hedge row system of planting. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with four spacing levels of planting system viz., T₁- 8m x 2m x 2m, T₂ -8m x 4m x 2m, T₃- 8m x 4m x 4m and T₄- 8m x 8m (Conventional spacing as control) and was replicated five times. The results revealed that the number of fruits per tree (1078.75) and yield (39.49 t/ha) were significantly higher in double hedge row system with spacing of 8m x 4m x 4m compared with normal (8m x 8m) planting (20.88t/ha). The highest cost: benefit ratio of 1:3.7 was registered in double hedge row system with spacing of 8m x 4m x 4m compared to conventional planting system (1:2.1). The fruit characteristics such as fruit weight (88.00 g), fruit length (13.22 cm) and fruit circumference (18.80 cm) were more in double hedge row system of planting with spacing of 8 m x 4 m x 4m. Hence, the double hedge row system of planting with a spacing of 8 m x 4 m x 4 m is the best planting system for Sapota var. PKM 4 to obtain higher yield per unit area and it could facilitate mechanization in large scale planting.