Pomegranate is one of the most popular fruit-bearing plants that provide numerous health benefits. It is essential to take proper care of the pomegranate plants to harvest good quality fruits. One of the significant problems faced by the pomegranate growers is flower dropping that results in a lower yield. Flower dropping is a common phenomenon in pomegranate that reduces the number of fruits. However, it can be controlled by following some simple measures.
Here are some measures that can be taken to control flower dropping in pomegranate:
1. Water Management: To reduce flower dropping, proper water management is crucial. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to excessive flower shedding. It is recommended to water the plants thoroughly but not excessively. Adequate water supply will help the plant to maintain healthy flowers that will yield high-quality fruits.
2. Nutrient Management: Pomegranate plants require essential nutrients to thrive. The lack of essential nutrients can lead to flower shedding. Therefore, it is necessary to provide adequate nutrients to the plants, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other micronutrients. Regular applications of fertilizers and foliar sprays can improve the plant’s health and control flower dropping.
3. Climatic Conditions: Pomegranate plants are sensitive to climatic changes, and irregular weather can affect the quantity and quality of the fruit. High humidity, excessive heat, and cold temperatures can result in flower shedding. The plants require a dry atmosphere, moderate temperatures, and bright sunlight to grow healthy flowers.
4. Pruning: Pruning helps in balancing the vegetative growth of the plant and enhances fruit production. Regular pruning helps to remove the infested branches, damaged, and weak limbs that result in the death of buds. Pruning should be done just before the growing season, and the cuts should be clean to avoid damaging the plant.
5. Chemicals Management: Sometimes, chemical spray is required to control flower dropping. The application of growth regulators, such as ethrel, restores the balance between vegetative and reproductive growth. Ethrel can help in sustaining early fruiting and improving the quality of the fruit.
In conclusion, Flower dropping is a common issue faced by pomegranate growers, and it can result in reduced yield. However, it can be controlled by following good cultural practices and taking proper care of the plant. Adequate water supply, nutrient management, pruning, and growth regulators can help in maintaining healthy flowers and improving fruit production. By following these measures, pomegranate growers can control flower dropping and harvest high-quality fruits.