Nutritional Status of Malta Orchards in Bikaner District

The nutritional survey studies conducted in Blood Red Malta orchards during 2009-10 revealed that all leaf samples were found deficient in nitrogen content, high in phosphorous content and low in potassium. The micro-nutrient analysis of Malta leaves showed sufficiency of iron and copper content, low in manganese and zinc content. The physico-chemical analysis of Malta fruits revealed that excellent Malta production can be achieved in arid soils of Bikaner district with proper management of nutrients at both macro and micro level and harvesting of fruits in the December-January can provide remunerative returns to fruit growers in the canal command areas of Bikaner district.