- D J Roe1 and J H Oosthuizen2
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1Burgershall Research Station, P/Bag X501, Kiepersol 1241
2Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops, P/Bag X11208, Nelspruit 1200 - 1994
Litchi growers must use scarce wat efficiently. Litchi trees appear to survive dry periods quite well, but physiological functions and production are severely affected by drought. Two scenarios are discussed, namely now water available, and limited water available. In the case of no water available, mulching, no fertilizer application, and in extreme cases, severe pruning, to try to ensure tree survival, even if it means loss of production for a while, are suggested. Where water is limited, it is suggested that a portion of the best litchi orchards be managed optimally, and the rest abandoned temporarily or treated as in the case where no water is available.