Growing litchis: Part 4

Litchi trees need regular watering, especially from the flowering stage until after the February/March flush following the harvest.

The edible portion of the litchi fruit has a water content of 86%, an indication that water is important during the development period. A water shortage will adversely affect the size, weight and quality of the litchis.

Irrigate after harvesting to ensure that a normal growth flush occurs during February/March, just before the beginning of the dormant period. Reduce irrigation during dormancy (April to July).

Farmers normally stop irrigating the trees during the coldest months of the year (June and July) so that they have a proper dormancy period.

Young trees not yet producing are irrigated throughout the year.

COVERING FRUIT CLUSTERS

Cover the fruit clusters to prevent damage from fruit flies and litchi moths, as well as sunburn and cracking. The ideal time for doing this varies from one area to the next.

Paper bags are at present the most suitable and also the cheapest covering material. Indeed, the fruit develops an attractive red colour inside the bags.

The bags should be made of reinforced brown paper resistant to the elements, and be open at both ends.

Covering the fruit also extends the harvest period, as the fruit can be left on the tree for longer. Another advantage is that the fruit is handled less during harvesting, which limits damage caused by rough handling.

The paper bags will even keep fruit bats and birds away.

If removed carefully, the bag can be used for another season.

The fruit must, however, be covered in the correct way and at the right time of the day (not early in the morning or immediately after rain because of the risk of decay when covered while still wet). Spray against litchi moth and fruit flies just before covering.

In addition, carry out the following: • Remove all the leaves on the cluster stem before covering;

• Do not cover more than

25 litchis in one bag;

• Attach the bags to hang at an angle; this will enable water to flow out. • Close both sides of the bag and, if necessary, leave a small opening for rainwater to run out. The open ends can quickly and easily be stapled together.

HARVESTING AND PACKING

Litchis stop ripening when they are picked. Therefore make sure that the fruit remains on the tree until quite ripe.

The stage of maturity at which the fruit is harvested is crucial to its ultimate quality. Litchis harvested too early have an unattractive colour and a sour taste. A single ripe fruit should weigh between 21g and 25g.

Litchis are packed as loose fruit and all unnecessary twigs or stems should be removed to ensure neat packing.

PAPER BAGS PREVENT DAMAGE FROM FRUIT FLIES AND LITCHI MOTHS, AS WELL AS SUNBURN

PIXABAY As litchis do not continue ripening after picking, it is important to ensure that they have reached the optimal colour and ripeness before harvesting.