Physiological studies on an Amazon shade and fertilizer trial at the Cocoa Research Institute, Ghana
Data on flushing, flowering, pod setting, cherelle wilting and production of mature pods under various regimes are presented and analysed to give information on the physiological basis of yield differences. Deshading and NPK fertilizer application promoted flushing and significantly increased flower numbers. Most cherelles set on lightly-shaded, fertilized cocoa. Pod setting pattern was not reflected in that of mature pod production, the latter being markedly altered by the degree of cherelle wilt. Final yield bore no relation to the degree of flowering and setting, and was apparently limited by the nutritional status of the tree. Deshading and fertilizer application effected a 10 per cent and 2 per cent reduction in wilt respectively. Possible mechanisms of cherelle wilt are discussed critically, the present result suggesting the involvement of carbohydrates and possibly minerals. Seasonal patterns of physiological behaviour and climate are presented and the phenology of cocoa is discussed in detail. Flushing occurred in cycles throughout the year, apparently being promoted by adequate soil moisture and high temperature or radiation. Flowering pattern could not be readily explained, though, in general, it corresponded with that of rainfall. Pod setting and cherelle wilting accentuated earlier flower peaks to give very marked cropping periods
| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | biblioteca |
| Language: | eng |
| Published: |
Accra (Ghana): Ghana University Press,
1971
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| Subjects: | THEOBROMA CACAO, SOMBRA, BROTACION, FLORACION, MADURACION, ETAPAS DE DESARROLLO DE LA PLANTA, FENOLOGIA, CLIMA, GHANA, |
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