February 06, 2026 | New Zealand Journal of Crop and Horticultural Science |
This study conducted by Geeta University, India examined the effects of climate change on flowering and fruiting processes in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.), an economically important subtropical fruit crop. Litchi production is highly dependent on stable environmental conditions, and changes in temperature, rainfall, and nutrient availability can strongly influence reproductive development and yield.
The study discusses how climate variability disrupts the transition between vegetative and reproductive growth phases. Litchi trees normally require three sequential vegetative flushes, emerging at intervals of two to three weeks, to support successful flowering and fruit set. Altered climatic conditions can disturb the timing and coordination of these flushes, leading to irregular flowering and reduced productivity. Climate change also affects the maintenance of appropriate carbon-to-nitrogen balance, which is important for reproductive development.
At the molecular level, the study highlights that climate-related stress can interfere with flowering-related genes such as LFY/LEAFY and APETALA, potentially causing abnormal floral development. Plant hormones including auxins, gibberellins, and abscisic acid, which regulate flowering and fruit retention, are also affected by environmental stress.
The study emphasizes the need to better understand these physiological and molecular responses in order to develop adaptive strategies for sustaining litchi production under changing climatic conditions.
