February 05, 2024 | Bulletin of the National Research Centre |
Conducted by Nangui Abrogoua University, Côte d'Ivoire, this study addresses the challenge of shortening the vegetative cycle of slow-growing crops, particularly focusing on the mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana). The slow growth and late fruiting of mangosteen trees have hindered their widespread adoption, particularly in rural areas where agricultural income diversification is essential.
The research aimed to evaluate how soil type and fertilizers influence the agronomic parameters of mangosteen tree growth, with the ultimate goal of shortening its vegetative phase. The study found that both soil type and fertilizer significantly affect mangosteen growth parameters, with lowland soil promoting better plant growth compared to forest soil. Notably, the use of foliar and granular N-P-K fertilizers resulted in earlier fruiting, starting from the 5th year of cultivation.
These findings underscore the importance of fertilizers in managing and shortening the juvenile phase of mangosteen trees, offering valuable insights for growers and agricultural practitioners seeking to enhance the productivity and commercial viability of mangosteen cultivation.
