Status of sugar apple and Annona hybrids production in Pakchong district, nakhon ratchasima province

Abstract

Primary data were collected by interviewing 80 farmers in Pakchong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province (during January to September 2006) in order to describe the status of sugar apple and Annona hybrid production. It was found that most of the farmers were male 41-50 years old, married and had primary education. Their major occupation was orchard growing with 11-15 years of experience. Only one or two family members could work in the orchard. The labors were family member and employee. The average of growing area was 23 rai. The land characteristics was plateau and plain with sandy loam soil and tropical climate weather. The fruit trees were grown by seedling and grafting respectively. Soil preparation was done two time to break up the soil before planting. Most farmers used chemical and organic fertilizers. Pesticide were applied to control pest were applied. Weed were controlled by herbicide and mechanical method. In addition, plant growth regulators for fruit setting and flowering. The yields of sugar apple were 850 kg./rai/yr and average price was 13.5 baht/kg. However, yields of Annona hybrid were 1,000 kg./rai/yr and average price was 50 baht/kg.