Potassium chlorate has been used in longan cultivation to promote flowering, first introduced in Taiwan and later adopted in Thailand for off-season production. In recent years, long-distance production areas within the province have also started using potassium chlorate to enhance off-season longan growth, with some achieving economic benefits. However, many orchards have experienced poor results despite its application. This article aims to share insights on the use of potassium chlorate in longan farming for reference.
There are several challenges associated with its use. First, the effectiveness varies significantly across regions. Some areas report good results, while others experience little to no flowering or uneven fruiting. Even when flowers appear, differences in blooming times can lead to flower drop due to adverse weather conditions, such as low temperatures, rain, or high heat, or improper management of fertilization and irrigation. Additionally, some trees may produce fruit, but the size is inconsistent, reducing market value.
Second, the technology itself is still not fully mature. Potassium chlorate, a strong oxidizer, is used for anti-season longan cultivation, but its application lacks scientific refinement. Therefore, it is not yet suitable for large-scale adoption.
Several issues remain unresolved. The method of application—whether through soil or foliar spray—still needs optimization. Soil application appears more effective, but the optimal technique (e.g., full root zone vs. partial, deep vs. shallow) remains unclear. The best time for application also varies by region, year, variety, and tree age, requiring further research. Dosage is another concern; current practices lack standardization, with application rates ranging from 0.1 kg to over 0.5 kg per plant. Proper dosage should depend on factors like tree size, topography, and climate, necessitating systematic studies.
Long-term use of potassium chlorate raises concerns about its impact on tree health, soil quality, and fertility. These effects are not yet well understood.
To improve outcomes, further research is needed on the mechanism by which potassium chlorate promotes flowering. While it's believed that soil application affects the root system, the exact cause—whether due to oxidation, root water control, or ion absorption—remains unclear.
Additionally, potassium chlorate must be carefully managed due to its potential for misuse in explosive production. Governments should regulate its sale and use, ensuring that only authorized personnel handle it. Farmers should apply it under technical supervision to avoid accidents.
For better results, the following measures are recommended:
1. **Three Looks**:
- Look at the tree: Strong, healthy trees respond better to potassium chlorate. Weak trees may suffer from poor nutrient accumulation and reduced fruit quality.
- Look at the shoots: Use mature new shoots for flowering, as immature ones lack sufficient nutrients for quality flower buds.
- Look at the water: Avoid excessive moisture after application, and cover the root area with plastic film during rainy periods to prevent dilution.
2. **Two Defenses**:
- Prevent competition between fruits and new shoots to ensure proper nutrition.
- Avoid thick, small fruit by managing temperature and applying leaf fertilizers and growth regulators.
Appropriate timing and post-application care are crucial. Deviating from natural growth cycles can stress the tree, leading to poor fruit development. While potassium chlorate can help promote flowering, especially in spring, large-scale temperature control facilities would make this more feasible. Under natural conditions, small-scale cultivation in favorable areas could still be viable.
Seasonal management strategies vary:
- **Spring**: Cover roots with plastic after application to prevent leaching, and manage watering to avoid sunburn.
- **Summer**: Enhance pollination with artificial methods, control shoot growth, and provide shade.
- **Winter**: Focus on improving pollination and protecting young fruit from cold damage.
In conclusion, while potassium chlorate offers potential in off-season longan cultivation, its use requires careful consideration, scientific research, and proper management to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
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