Annona squamosa, commonly known as sugar apple or sweetsop, is a fruit resembling the head of a Buddha, with a taste reminiscent of ice cream, making it highly popular. It is cultivated in many regions. What are the reasons for the slow growth of Annona squamosa seedlings? Let's delve into it.
Reasons for Slow Growth of Annona Squamosa Seedlings
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Soil Issues: When artificially cultivating Annona squamosa trees, it's essential to choose well-draining sandy soil. Clayey soil can affect soil drainage, leading to slow growth of Annona squamosa seedlings.
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Inadequate Sunlight: Annona squamosa trees originate in tropical regions and have high sunlight requirements. While they tolerate some shade, ensuring an adequate duration and intensity of sunlight during their growth is crucial; otherwise, Annona squamosa seedlings may grow slowly.
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Temperature: Annona squamosa thrives in warm temperatures, ideally around 28 degrees Celsius, not dropping below 15 degrees Celsius. Temperature extremes below 14 degrees Celsius or above 28 degrees Celsius can result in slow growth and even death of Annona squamosa seedlings.
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Water: Annona squamosa trees require water but are also sensitive to excessive moisture. Prolonged waterlogging for more than four days can lead to leaf drop. Insufficient water during the fruiting period can slow down tree growth. Adequate but not excessive watering is essential for Annona squamosa tree growth.
Annona Squamosa Seedling Care Tips
When watering, ensure to water moderately and avoid excessive watering, as even short-term waterlogging can adversely affect Annona squamosa trees. Drainage measures should be implemented, especially during the rainy season. Reduce or refrain from watering during periods of low winter temperatures. Annona squamosa seedlings typically require watering every 3-5 days, increasing to daily during droughts. When seedlings develop 6-8 leaves, apply diluted manure or low-concentration urea solution. Adjust fertilizer concentration as the plants grow, transitioning to potassium fertilizer or compound fertilizer in the later stages to promote robust growth.
The above are the reasons for the slow growth of Annona squamosa seedlings. There are various factors contributing to slow growth, primarily related to soil, sunlight, temperature, and water conditions. Paying attention to these factors is crucial during the cultivation process.
