Comprehensive Guide to Sapota Cultivation

Sapota Cultivation

Sapota (Manilkara zapota), commonly known as chikoo, is a highly valued tropical fruit celebrated for its sweet taste and rich nutritional profile, containing 15-20% digestible sugars, protein, fats, fiber, and essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Successful sapota cultivation requires a thorough understanding of its growth requirements, as the fruit is widely used in desserts, fruit salads, and milkshakes, while the latex from unripe fruits, known as “chuckle,” serves as a key ingredient in chewing gum production.

However, sapota is highly perishable and difficult to preserve, leading to significant post-harvest losses, with wastage rates of 25-40% due to mishandling. Commercial processing is limited because heat sensitivity alters its flavor and color and peeling and seed removal are labor-intensive.

Despite this, small-scale advancements have been made in producing dry segments, flakes, and products like jams, jellies, and beverages by blending sapota with other fruits. Developing value-added products is crucial to ensure stable prices for farmers. Below is a detailed guide to sapota cultivation based on proven farming practices.

Land Preparation

The first step in preparing the field for cultivation is to clear away any material that can hinder crop growth or disrupt farming operations, such as rocks and weeds. After clearing the field, plow it two or three times to break up the soil and create tilth, a fine, crumbly texture. This increases soil aeration, which facilitates better nutrient circulation and root breathing. Evenly level the ground after plowing to guarantee even water distribution and avoid waterlogging, which can damage crops and reduce yields. In order to provide the perfect environment for successful farming and healthy plant growth, the soil must be properly prepared.

Soil Type

The best soil types for sapota cultivation are medium-black, red laterite, sandy loam, and alluvial soils because of their excellent draining qualities. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 8.0 and be high in organic matter for the best growth. Heavy clay or soggy soils, on the other hand, should be avoided since they can cause root rot and harm the health of the plant.

Climatic Requirements for Sapota Cultivation

Major Cultivars of Sapota

 Planting

a). Planting Season

Sapota, a versatile fruit crop, can be planted throughout a wide window from March to October, offering flexibility to farmers based on their regional conditions and resource availability. However, the optimal time for planting sapota is during the monsoon season, specifically between June and September. This period is ideal because the consistent rainfall and higher soil moisture levels during the monsoon facilitate better root establishment and overall growth of the young plants

b). Spacing

For sapota cultivation, standard spacing is recommended at 8m x 8 m to allow adequate room for growth. However, for dwarf varieties, high-density planting with a spacing of 6m x 6m is more suitable to optimize yield and efficient land use.

c). Pit Preparation

For pit preparation, dig pits measuring 60 cm in length, width, and depth. Fill each pit with a mixture of topsoil, 10 kg of farmyard manure (FYM), and 500 grams of single superphosphate to provide essential nutrients and create a fertile environment for the sapota saplings to thrive.

d). Planting Method

Place the sapling in the center of the prepared pit and gently cover it with soil, ensuring the roots are well-covered. Immediately after planting, water the sapling thoroughly to help it establish and settle into the soil.

e). Number of Plants per Acre

The number of plants per acre varies based on spacing: under standard spacing for tall varieties, approximately 63 plants can be accommodated, while high-density planting for dwarf varieties allows for around 112 plants per acre, optimizing land use and yield potential.

Intercropping in Sapota Cultivation

Sapota, being a slow-growing crop, benefits from intercropping during the initial 3–4 years. Suitable intercrops can be chosen based on the season:

a). Kharif Season (Rainy Season)

Legumes like beans and peas, along with vegetables such as brinjal, tomato, and cucurbits, are ideal intercrops.

b). Rabi Season (Winter Season)

Vegetables like cabbage and cauliflower can be grown as intercrops.

c). Year-Round Options

Short-duration fruit crops such as papaya and pineapple, as well as banana and cocoa, are recommended depending on the climate and irrigation facilities.

Irrigation for Sapota Cultivation

Mature sapota trees should be watered every 15 to 20 days during dry periods to maintain healthy growth and fruit production. In contrast, young plants require more frequent watering, typically every 7 to 10 days, to ensure proper establishment and development.

Drip irrigation is highly recommended as it conserves water and provides consistent moisture to the plants. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other issues that may harm the tree’s health.

Irrigation Schedule for Sapota

a). 0–1 year

During the first year of sapota cultivation, young saplings require careful irrigation with 1.5 to 2 liters of water per plant per day to support their establishment and early growth. It is crucial to ensure consistent moisture without overwatering, as waterlogging can harm the delicate roots and hinder the sapling’s development.

b). 1–3 years

During the 1–3-year stage, sapota plants require 2–3 liters of water per plant per day, with the quantity gradually increasing as the plant grows. Mulching is recommended during this period to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce water evaporation. This practice ensures the young plants receive adequate hydration, promoting healthy root development and overall growth.

c). 3–5 years

During the 3–5-year stage, sapota plants need 3–4 liters of water per plant per day. At this phase, it is advisable to reduce the frequency of watering while increasing the quantity per session. This approach encourages deeper root development, allowing the plant to access moisture and nutrients from lower soil layers. This practice strengthens the tree’s resilience, supports healthy growth, and prepares it for the flowering and fruiting stages.

d). 5–10 years

Sapota trees need 4–5 liters of water per plant per day throughout the 5–10 year stage. To guarantee ideal growth and the production of high-quality fruit, it is crucial to maintain constant soil moisture, especially throughout the flowering and fruiting seasons. During this time, the tree’s increased nutrient needs are supported by adequate hydration, which also encourages healthy flowering and improves fruit development, all of which contributes to a successful harvest.

e). 10+ years

At the 10+ year stage, mature sapota trees need 5–6 liters of water per plant per day. Although these trees are drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions, they still benefit from regular irrigation during extended dry spells. Providing sufficient water during such periods ensures the trees remain healthy, maintain their productivity, and continue to produce high-quality fruits, even in challenging weather conditions.

Fertilizer and Manure for Sapota Cultivation

a). Planting Stage (0–1 year)

During the initial planting stage, apply 10 kg of farmyard manure (FYM) along with 100g nitrogen (N), 50g phosphorus (P), and 100g potassium (K) per plant annually. Mix the FYM and fertilizers into the planting pit and divide the fertilizer application into 2–3 splits for better nutrient absorption.

b). Juvenile Stage (1–3 years)

For young sapota plants, increase the FYM to 15kg and the fertilizers to 200g N, 100g P, and 200g K per plant annually. Apply FYM at the start of the monsoon season and split the fertilizers into 2–3 applications throughout the year to support steady growth.

c). Pre-Bearing Stage (3–5 years)

At this stage, use 20 kg of FYM and 300g N, 150g P, and 300g K per plant annually. Apply FYM and fertilizers in 2–3 splits during the growing season to prepare the tree for future flowering and fruiting.

d). Bearing Stage (5–10 years)

For bearing trees, apply 30kg of FYM and 500g N, 250g P, and 500g K per plant annually. Apply FYM before the flowering season and split the fertilizers into 2–3 applications during the year to ensure consistent nutrient supply for optimal fruit production.

e). Mature Stage (10+ years)

Mature sapota trees require 40kg of FYM and 600g N, 300g P, and 600g K per plant annually. Focus on applying FYM and fertilizers in 2–3 splits, particularly after harvest and before flowering, to maintain tree health and sustain high yields.

Weed Control

Effective weed management is essential, particularly during the early stages of sapota farming. Regular weeding helps establish healthy plants by eliminating competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Mulching with dried leaves or straw is an excellent method to suppress weed growth while retaining soil moisture.

Herbicides should be used sparingly and only when necessary to minimize their environmental impact. For the first 10–12 months, a pre-emergence application of Stomp (800 ml/acre) or Diuron (800 gm/acre) can effectively control weed growth, ensuring a weed-free environment for young sapota plants to thrive.

Pruning

In order to preserve tree health, increase yield, and encourage healthy growth, pruning is crucial in sapota cultivation. In order to avoid infections and pest infestations, sick, dry, and undesired branches must be removed. Fruit quality improves with annual pruning because it increases air circulation, lowers the risk of fungus, and improves sunshine penetration. This method guarantees long-term, high-quality yields and maintains the tree’s health and productivity.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests

a). Leaf Webber

Dark brown lesions or patches on the tree’s leaves are the disease’s first visible symptoms; these begin small and progressively spread to cover greater sections of the foliage. The disease causes the afflicted leaves to become dry and brittle as it worsens. The damage eventually reaches the branches, which wither and dry out as a result.

This weakens the tree, which can result in stunted development, less fruit, and in extreme situations, the death of the damaged limbs or the tree itself if treatment is not received. To avoid more harm and halt the disease’s spread, prompt and precise diagnosis and prompt action are essential.

Management

At intervals of 20 days after the production of new shoots or during the fruit harvest time, a solution of 600 grams of carbaryl or 200 milliliters of chlorpyriphos mixed in 150 liters of water is sprayed.

b). Hairy Caterpillar

They harm plants by nibbling on twigs and young shoots, which slows down growth and makes the plant weaker. If left unchecked, this can result in stunted growth, decreased fruit or flower supply, reduced leaf production, and even plant mortality. To avoid such damage, proper pest management is crucial.

Management

Each acre is sprayed with a solution of 300 ml of quinalphos diluted with 150 liters of water.

c). Bud worm

Moth caterpillars, the larval stage of moths, damage plants by feeding on vegetative buds, which are vital for growth and new leaf, shoot, and flower formation. This feeding stunt development reduces foliage and can harm overall plant health. Effective pest control is essential to prevent extensive damage.

Management

A solution of fame@20 milliliters mixed in 150 liters of water is sprayed per acre.

Common Diseases

a). Anthracnose

There is deep, buried canker lesions on the stem and branches, as well as brown stains on the leaves.

Management

To control anthracnose, a solution of copper oxychloride or M-45@400 grams mixed in 150 liters of water is sprayed.

b). Leaf Spot

One of the signs is the development of circular, deep purplish-brown patches with a white core. Usually seen on the leaves, these dots give the foliage a unique look. On the stems of fruits and petals, there are also lengthy patches or lesions visible. These symptoms point to a possible bacterial or fungal infection, which, if left untreated, might spread and harm the plant even more. To stop the infection from getting worse and harming the plant’s general health, it must be properly identified and treated.

Management

A solution of copper oxychloride@400 grams is sprayed per acre.

c).  Heart rot

It is a fungal infection that leads to the decay of wood in the core of the trunk and branches.

Management

A solution of Carbendazim@400 grams or Z-78@400 grams mixed in 150 liters of water is sprayed per acre.

Harvesting

Three years after planting, sapota trees usually start to give fruit. Depending on the species and management techniques used, the average output might range from 15 to 20 tons per hectare. When the fruits become brownish-yellow and give slightly under light pressure, they are ready to be harvested. To ensure the quality and freshness of the food for the market or consumption, harvesting is done by hand, carefully twisting the fruit from the tree to prevent harm.