Constraints in cultivation and nursery management of Appemidi mango in the Malnad region of Karnataka

Abstract

Appemidi, an indigenous tender mango variety (Mangifera indica L.) native to Karnataka’s Malnad region, holds immense cultural and economic significance and has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique characteristics. The present study analyzed the major constraints faced by Appemidi farmers and nursery owners using primary data collected from 30 farmers and 10 nursery owners through a structured questionnaire and Garrett’s ranking technique. Results revealed that irregular and alternate bearing of trees, high flower drop, poor fruit set, and adverse climatic effects like mist were the major production constraints. Limited availability and high cost of quality planting material, lack of research support, and low awareness of scientific practices further hindered commercial cultivation. For nursery owners, the absence of mother blocks for scion collection, high rootstock mortality, shortage of skilled grafters, and limited access to inputs and credit emerged as key challenges. The study emphasizes the need for dedicated research and propagation programmes, establishment of mother blocks, training in grafting and scientific cultivation, and enhanced institutional support to improve the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of Appemidi cultivation in the Malnad region.