Effects of girdling in winter on Guifeihong litchi leaf nutrition and flower formation

ObjectiveThis studied was conducted to find out the effects of girdling in winter on Guifeihong litchi last shoot leaf growth and flower cluster growth in winter in order to provide reference for efficient cultivation management of Guifeihong litchi.MethodGirdling was conducted on 10-year Guifeihong litchi trees in winter,flower cluster growth and contents of nitrogen,phosphorus,potassium and chlorophyll in last shoot leaf of girdled Guifeihong litchi trees were analyzed.ResultThe results showed that the content of nitrogen and phosphorus in Guifeihong litchi last shoot leaves was significantly lower than that in CK 15,30,45 and 60 d after girdling(P<0.05,the same below). The content of potassium was significantly lower than that in CK 15 d after girdling,and it was not significantly different from that of CK 30,45 and 60 d after girdling(P>0.05,the same below),but significantly higher than that of CK 75 d after girdling. Total chlorophyll content was significantly lower than that of CK 45,60 and 75 d after girdling. Compared with CK,flower cluster growth rate of girdled Guifeihong litchi trees were higher,width of flower cluster larger,and length of flower cluster shorter,but the difference was not significant.ConclusionGirdling in winter can effectively inhibit the growth of Guifeihong litchi winter shoots,promote flower bud differentiation,and increase flower cluster growth rate. Therefore,it can be promoted as an effective measure to realize high and stable yield of Guifeihong litchi.