Navsari Agricultural University
Date palm is a perennial tree and bears fruits for 40-50 years. Therefore, adequate planting distance is very essential. In general, planting is done at 8 m distance between rows and plants in square system, which facilitates intercultural operations and proper development of the palms. A total of 156 palms are accommodated in one hectare. Since it is dioecious, 10% of these must be raised by planting male offshoots to provide adequate pollen-grains. The field should be thoroughly ploughed, leveled and pits of 1m x1m x 1m size are dug during simmer. They are kept open for about a fortnight and refilled with a mixture of garden soil and well decomposed farmyard manure. Care should be taken that the crown of the planted offshoots remains at least 10-15 cm higher than the ground level so that the irrigation water does not touch it or enter into it. Young offshoots should be protected against intense heat and low winter temperature for at least 2-3 years by providing partial shade. Rainy season (July-September) is ideal time of planting.
� 2013 Agricultural Educatorium, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. All Rights Reserved Managed by: IT Cell, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari.