Sapindus is a genus of evergreen or deciduous trees and shrubs that belong to the Sapindaceae family. Sapindus is a valuable fruit crop that produces fruits containing saponins, which are used as detergents.
Sapindus grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers warm, humid climates with plenty of sunlight.
1. Variety selection
When choosing a sapindus variety, the following factors must be considered:
- Purpose of cultivation: For cultivation as a fruit crop, varieties with high yield and good quality of fruit are selected.
- Winter hardiness: Some varieties of sapindus can tolerate short-term frosts, while others require shelter for the winter.
2. Soil preparation
Sapindus is a light-loving and moisture-loving plant, so to grow it you need to prepare a sunny and well-drained place.
The soil for planting sapindus must be fertile and neutral or slightly acidic.
3. Landing
Sapindus is planted in the spring, when the threat of frost has passed.
Sapindus is planted in planting holes with a depth and diameter of 60-70 cm. A layer of drainage from broken brick or crushed stone is poured into the planting hole, then a layer of fertile soil. Sapindus is planted so that the root collar is at soil level. After planting, sapindus is watered abundantly.
4. Plant care
Sapindus is an unpretentious plant, but to obtain a good harvest the following measures must be taken:
- Watering: Sapindus is a moisture-loving plant, so during the growing season it is necessary to water the plants regularly, especially in hot weather.
- Fertilizing: During the period of active plant growth, 2-3 fertilizing with mineral fertilizers is carried out. The first feeding is carried out in the phase of 3-4 true leaves, the second - in the flowering phase, the third - in the fruiting phase.
- Pruning: To form the crown of the sapindus, pruning is carried out. Pruning is carried out in the spring, before the buds open.
- Protection from pests and diseases: Sapindus is susceptible to various diseases and pests. To protect plants from pests and diseases, it is necessary to carry out preventive treatments.
5. Harvest
Sapindus begins to bear fruit 3-4 years after planting. Sapindus fruits ripen in August-September. The ripening of Sapindus fruits is determined by their characteristic color and softness. Sapindus fruits are harvested by hand, cutting them off with the stalk.
6. Diseases and pests
Sapindus is susceptible to the following diseases:
- Cercospora
- Powdery mildew
- Scab
Sapindus is susceptible to the following pests:
- Aphids
- Sapindus aphid
- Sapindus spider mite
Additional Tips
- To obtain an earlier harvest, Sapindus can be grown as seedlings. Sapindus seedlings are grown at home or in greenhouses.
- To increase the yield of sapindus, you can grow it next to other crops that repel pests.
To obtain a good harvest, it is necessary to follow the agricultural techniques for growing sapindus.