Evaluation of different methods of defoliation in lasora (Cordia myxa L.) under semi-arid conditions of western India

Comparative Response of Defoliation Methods in Lasora Under Semi-Arid Conditions

Abstract

Lasora commonly known as Indian cherry, is a potential yet underutilized fruit tree of arid and semi-arid climates and shows strong potential for commercial use in the vegetable and pickle industry. The present study aimed at obtaining a high yield and good quality fruits of lasora by using defoliation agents. Defoliation in the months of December to January is required for early fruiting, fetching good market price as well as maximum production of lasora. The defoliation practices and dormancybreaking chemicals influence phenology, yield and fruit quality in lasora. Manual defoliation served as an effective method to trigger defoliation. Chemical combinations, particularly thiourea (TU), ethephon and diammonium phosphate (DAP), also induced substantial leaf abscission through enhanced ethylene action, while 2,4-D was less effective. These same treatments accelerated sprouting and flower initiation compared with untreated control plants; TU’s dormancybreaking effect likely stems from increased cellular starch and altered protein composition, thereby raising the C:N ratio. In contrast, 2,4-D delayed bud break and flowering. Early sprouting led to earlier flowering and fruit maturation, conferring commercial advantages by allowing earlier market availability. Maturity occurred around 55–57 days after defoliation with Thiourea 10 g + ethephon 4 ml + DAP 10 g litr-1 treatment and ethephon (4 ml litr-1) alone, whereas 2,4-D and control treatments required about 64 days. Fruit set improved markedly, reaching nearly 21 % with the chemical combination. Fruit weight rose to approximately 8 g compared with 6.39 g in controls. Yield per plant and per hectare doubled under treatment (T5) Thiourea 10 g + ethephon 4 ml + DAP 10 g litr-1; manual defoliation also significantly increased yield. Fruit quality was enhanced: total soluble solids exceeded 13 %, and the stone:flesh ratio declined to 0.14 or less, indicating a higher pulp content. Although DAP’s specific role is unclear, it may contribute nitrogen that supports growth and yield. Overall, strategic defoliation particularly the combination of manual leaf removal with thiourea and ethephon proved effective for modulating phenology, boosting yield and improving fruit quality in lasora.