Custard Apple (Annona retusa or Annona squamosa) is a tropical fruit tree, also known as Sugar Apple or Sita Phal. Here's an overview:
Varieties:
1. Sugar Apple (Annona squamosa)
2. Custard Apple (Annona retusa)
3. Sita Phal (Annona squamosa)
4. Supar Golden (hybrid)
5. Pink's Mammoth (hybrid)
Characteristics:
1. Large, sweet, and creamy fruit
2. Soft, custard-like pulp
3. Green or yellowish-green skin
4. Dwarf or semi-dwarf tree (3-5 meters tall)
Growing Requirements:
1. Tropical to subtropical climate (15-30C)
2. Well-draining soil with pH 5.5-6.5
3. Full sun to partial shade
4. Regular watering (avoid waterlogging)
5. Fertilize regularly (balanced fertilizer)
Tissue Culture Custard Apple Plants:
1. Uniform growth and yield
2. Disease-free and pest-resistant
3. Faster growth rate (6-12 months)
4. Increased yield (15-20% higher)
5. True-to-type plants
Care Tips:
1. Prune regularly for bushy growth
2. Train the tree to maintain shape
3. Monitor for pests (mealybugs, aphids)
4. Protect from extreme temperatures
Propagation Methods:
1. Seeds (less common due to variability)
2. Grafting (more popular for consistency)
3. Tissue culture (micropropagation)
4. Budding
Pest and Disease Management:
1. Mealybugs
2. Aphids
3. Whiteflies
4. Root rot
5. Leaf spot
Harvesting:
1. Fruits mature 3-4 months after flowering
2. Harvest when skin turns yellowish-green
3. Handle fruits carefully to avoid damage