Effect of Shade on Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) under Bay Island conditions

Abstract

High radiation, temperature and relative humidity are being major concern for growing crops in Bay Islands. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of shade on yield and growth parameters of Morinda citrifolia L. We have studied two consecutive years (2015-2017). The study was laid out in Randomized Block Design with four treatments. Results have showed significant difference among all the treatments. The highest yield was recorded in the open field (17.75 Kg/Plant) followed by tree grown under coconut plantation (16.00). Highest plant height (3.89 m) was recorded in tree grown under arecanut plantation and the least plant height was found in open field (3.05 m) while same treatment recorded the highest number of branches per plant, Diameter at Breast height and crown diameter (21.70, 14.81 cm, 3.70 m respectively). This study revealed that severe shade reduces the growth and fruit yield of Noni. To improve the growth and yield of noni it is suggested to maintain appropriate sunlight through management of crown architecture of the plantation.