A Field Day on “Canopy Management and Plant Protection Techniques in Guava” was organized by CHES (ICAR-IIHR), Bhubaneswar at Sampada Village, Nuagaon Tehsil, Nayagarh District, Odisha on 14h January, 2020. The objective of programme was to provide technical know-how on scientific orcharding of guava, with special reference to canopy management and plant protection measures. A field visit to guava orchard spread over an area of 20 acres was undertaken by the scientists and technical staff of CHES along with state govt officials. On the basis of field observations and interaction with the Sri Shankshan Sahu and other orchardists, important areas of crop cultivation requiring immediate scientific inputs were identified by subject specialists and accordingly, guava growers were given expert advice for higher economic benefits. Dr. Deepa Samant, Scientist- Horticulture (Fruit Sc.), CHES, Bhubaneswar highlighted the importance of training in guava during initial stage of orchard establishment to develop ideal tree architecture and realise higher yield potential on a sustainable basis. Nutrient management and irrigation aspects were discussed in details and demonstrated by Dr. Kundan Kishore, Principal Scientist-Horticulture (Fruit Sc.). Dr. G. Sangeetha, Principal Scientist- Plant Pathology explained about various plant protection measures to be adopted by guava growers for reducing the crop damage caused by various insect pests and diseases. Farmers were advised to take proper precautions and safety measures (use of protective clothing, goggles, gloves and face mask etc.) while handling and spraying plant protection chemicals.
Training and canopy management technologies standardized by CHES, Bhubaneswar were demonstrated with the help of Sri Manoj Pattanaik, STA, CHES, Bhubaneswar.
An interface meeting with the fruit growers were organzied in the presence of DDH, Nayagarh, Sr. Scientist and Head, KVK, Nayagarh, and AHO, Daspalla. The programme came to an end with the vote of thanks by Sri Manoj Pattnaik, TA. The field day which was attended by more than 50 fruit growers was coordinated by Dr. Deepa Samant with support of Dr. G. Sangeetha, Dr Kundan Kishore and Sri Manoj Pattnaik.
