Gandaki Sampada: Transforming Litchi Cultivation for Quality and Profitability

Gandaki Sampada, a clonal selection meticulously developed and evaluated over nine years, is revolutionizing litchi cultivation. With its robust growth, exceptional fruit quality, and commercial viability, Gandaki Sampada represents a significant breakthrough in agricultural innovation. 

Origins and Development

The journey of Gandaki Sampada began at Benibad farm in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, where it was selected from a large population of air-layered plants. Through rigorous evaluation at Muzaffarpur, this clonal selection emerged as a standout performer, showcasing traits that set it apart from traditional varieties like Late Bedana. Notably, Gandaki Sampada exhibits regularity, large fruit size, heavy yield, and high pulp content, making it a coveted choice among growers.

Growth and Flowering Patterns

• Gandaki Sampada's growth pattern is characterized by semi-vigorous, spreading trees with long branches and a bunching leaf habit. Its maturity is marked by dark green leaves that curve upward, creating a visually striking canopy.

• Flowering typically commences 4-5 years after planting, with distinct waves of inflorescences contributing to optimal pollination and fruit set. Anthesis occur between 5:30 and 7:00 AM, followed by dehiscence from 7:00 to 9:30 AM, ensuring efficient fertilization and fruit development.

Fruit Quality

• The hallmark of Gandaki Sampada lies in its exceptional fruit quality. Fruits weigh between 35-42g and boast conical or heart-shaped profiles, adorned with vibrant vermilion to carmine hues at maturity.

• The creamy-white flesh, sweet and juicy with 18-20°B TSS and 0.7% acid, offers a delightful sensory experience. Importantly, Gandaki Sampada exhibits a high aril content, resulting in 80 to 85% pulp recovery.

• Its resistance to cracking and fruit borers enhances market value, ensuring extended shelf-life and superior quality.

Propagation 

• Successful propagation of Gandaki Sampada relies on meticulous techniques such as air-layering, ensuring optimal root development before transplantation.

• After 2 to 4 months, air-layered branches are ready for transplantation into the nursery, where they continue to thrive under careful supervision.

Establishing Orchards 

• Establishing Gandaki Sampada orchards requires meticulous planning and preparation. Site selection, pit digging, and nutrient enrichment are crucial steps in creating an optimal environment for vigorous growth.

• Pits of 90 cm × 90 cm × 90 cm, filled with Trichoderma enriched FYM, neem/karanj cake, and SSP or bone meal, provide the necessary nutrients for healthy root development and sustained growth.

Pruning and Mulching

Pruning and mulching practices play a vital role in promoting balanced growth and soil health, ensuring optimal conditions for cultivation. Efficient irrigation management and nutrient application protocols support robust growth and fruit development, maximizing productivity and minimizing environmental impact.

Harvesting 

Gandaki Sampada fruits are harvested at peak maturity, characterized by uniform red pericarp and smooth protuberances. By adhering to stringent harvesting protocols, growers ensure optimal flavor and quality, enhancing market competitiveness and consumer satisfaction.

(Source: Drs  Vishal  Nath,  A  K  Gupta,  S  D  Pandey Kuldeep Srivastava (Scientist), NRC for Litchi, Muzaffarpur. Dr Awatar Singh (Scientist), Division of Fruits and Hort. Tech., IARI, New Delhi. Dr  D  S  Mishra  (Scientist),  CHES  (CIAH),  Godhra. Indian Horticulture, March–April  2017, 21-22)