Rejuvenation of the neglectosis affected Nagpur mandarin orchards

The predominant causes of untimely decline of the Nagpur mandarin orchard are neglecting the symptoms of decline, aptly called as neglectosis. The present study was undertaken in Nagpur district of Maharashtra during 2012-2014. It was aimed at assessing efficacy of the orchard rejuvenation technology to augment yields on farmers’ fields. Treatments associated with rejuvenation were taken up after ascertaining the causes of decline. The comprehensive treatment comprised removal of all the dry woods and shoots followed by foliar spray of Carbendazim @ 1gm/lit of water, pre and post monsoon Bordeaux paste applications, control measures for bark eating caterpillar, proper irrigation practices and nutritional corrections. After application of the recommended fertilizer schedule, the orchard gained vigour that was also reflected in the increase in overall yield. The application of dichlorvas 0.1% @5 ml/larval hole gave complete control of bark eating caterpillar (Inderbela sp.). With the timely application of the technologies, the yield of ambia bahar obtained at three different locations (11.81, 14.40 and 16.38 tons/ha respectively) exhibited the feasibility of rejuvenation technology demonstration.