Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) is a small group of edible fruits of genus Annona and family Annonaceae which are collectively known as Annonaceous fruit. The genus of Annona has 120 species out of which 6 species have the pomological significance. It is one of the most delicious fruit consumed as fresh. The fruits of custard apple are formed with the fusion of pistil and receptacle into large fleshy aggregate fruits.
It is believed that Annonaceous fruits is originated in Tropical America and are widely distributed in tropics and sub tropics. In India it is cultivated in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Orissa, Assam, and Tamil Nadu. Besides India, it is common in Southeast Asia, Egypt and Central Africa. The tree can be grown in all types of soil having a good drainage facility with a pH range of 6.5-8.5
VNR Madhur is a researched variety of custard apple/ sugar apple, developed at VNR Nursery. The need of breeding programme was focused on big size, less seed, more pulp and sweeter fruit.
VNR Madhur has following characteristics –
- Big Size (300-1000g),
- Fewer and Small Seeds (4-5%),
- Big Eyes/Acreiol,
- Crystal Free Pulp,
- Creamy Pulp,
- Better Sweetness TSS (25-30° Brix),
- Pulp & Skin Ratio (70:25) is almost 2:1 and Good Productivity.
In order to educate the growers of VNR Madhur it was felt that a detailed Package of Practices needs to be published and shared. The contents of the subject required to be supported with photographs to make it more valuable for all profiles of farmers. It is observed that majority of VNR Madhur Growers are following these recommended practices to keep their orchards healthy and are obtaining maximum yield season-on-season. Credentials of such results can be referred through farmers testimonials.
The Package of practices are prepared in following order –
– Care of VNR Madhur Plants before Plantation
– Plantation – Earthing Up Level
– Removal of Tape from Graft Union
– Bagging
– Grading
