Tamarind monograph.pdf - Crops for the Future
Tamarind monograph.pdf - Crops for the Future
Tamarind monograph.pdf - Crops for the Future
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an eco-geographic approach. Because of <strong>the</strong> long-lived nature of <strong>the</strong> trees<br />
molecular and biochemical techniques of analysis should be combined with<br />
biometrical measurements and o<strong>the</strong>r assessments of traits of value in<br />
characterising any stocks to be put into working collections <strong>for</strong> potential use<br />
in genetic improvement.<br />
Additionally research is needed on <strong>the</strong> effective size of breeding<br />
populations.<br />
11.2.2 Genetic improvement<br />
The genetic improvement goals are straight<strong>for</strong>ward based on <strong>the</strong> available<br />
material. They are: faster growth and higher yielding lines <strong>for</strong> selection <strong>for</strong><br />
different uses.<br />
Since normal crossing is not an option, more trait specific work is needed so<br />
that provenance trials can lead to selections which combine <strong>the</strong> desirable<br />
characters, and <strong>the</strong>n to cultivars developed from <strong>the</strong>m. These should be<br />
developed to fit <strong>the</strong> different land-use systems of agro<strong>for</strong>estry,<br />
orchards/plantations, as well as certain stress conditions inherent in a<br />
number of wastelands which need to be rehabilitated.<br />
11.2.3 Propagation and establishment<br />
Once cultivars are selected, propagation methods are necessary to produce<br />
young plants and make <strong>the</strong>m available to growers. Vegetative propagation<br />
techniques should be standardised, simple and easily per<strong>for</strong>med by farmers.<br />
Where official agencies are involved, attention should be paid to <strong>the</strong><br />
protocols necessary <strong>for</strong> rapid propagation. Research is still needed here.<br />
Not enough is known about <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>for</strong> Rhizobia or mycorrhizal in<br />
tamarind cultivation. More research is needed. Whereas in commercial<br />
operations pellets can be used, smallholders will need to know whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y<br />
need to obtain soil from growing populations to mix into <strong>the</strong> mixtures <strong>the</strong>y<br />
put into planting pits <strong>for</strong> optimum growth.<br />
11.2.4 Management of plants<br />
One area of research which needs much more emphasis is understanding<br />
flowering, fruit set and fruit production. The development of standardised<br />
relatively low-cost sprays to enhance fruit production is an urgent research<br />
need since growers will have to factor this cost into <strong>the</strong>ir cost-benefit<br />
analyses.<br />
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