Contents
Watering the lychee
This plant, especially during flowering, is afraid of excessive humidity; therefore, if the rains are frequent, watering should be done from time to time, when the soil is completely dry. However, prolonged drought should also be avoided, and the tree should be constantly watered during the driest periods. A factor that regulates water management is therefore represented by rainfall; however, even the age of the plant should influence watering, since young specimens should be monitored more carefully and watered more frequently. Stagnant water should be avoided at all costs as it causes dangerous root rot which quickly leads to the deterioration of the entire tree.
cultivation tips
Propagation of lychees is usually done by techniques such as cutting and layering; In general, we tend to avoid sowing, because with this method the development of the plant would be slow and the production would be very low. The ideal soil is not very compact, deep and has excellent drainage: for this, it is advisable to mix a little pumice stone with the earth. Pruning aims both to define the shape of the tree in the first years of growth and to eliminate diseased or dry branches; if fungal diseases occur, the affected parts should be removed immediately to prevent their spread. To improve the chemical and physical characteristics of the soil of the plantation, annual mulching with fragments of bark or straw is recommended.
How to fertilize the plant
The fertilizations must be done approximately every three months, with ternary products based on potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus; however, minor elements such as boron, magnesium, manganese and zinc should not be overlooked. Alternatively, a natural fertilizer, such as manure or manure, can be used. It is appropriate to emphasize the importance of the three macroelements mentioned above: potassium, in fact, is essential since it supports the production of ATP and the synthesis of proteins, nitrogen helps tissue growth, and finally, phosphorus stimulates metabolism and rooting. The fertilizer must balance these three elements in balance: their lack could be very dangerous for the health of the tree, causing general weakness and stunted growth.
Litchi: exposure, pests and diseases
The ideal exposure is sunny and bright, with temperatures around 25°C; the plant tolerates heat and cold well, but it is essential that it is not affected by too intense winds. Litchi can also be infested with aphids, recognizable by their green or black color and the perforations they cause in the foliage and buds: these insects suck the sap of the affected tree. A suitable solution is nettle macerate, prepared with nettle leaves soaked in a container of water. In addition, fungal diseases such as mold and rot can occur; if possible, it is recommended to remove the affected parts as quickly as possible, using disinfected tools, and to carry out two or three treatments based on fungicide products.