Fruits > Litchi > Soil & Climate

Soil

The litchi can grow in a variety of soil types particularly in fairly deep, well drained loam rich in organic matter. A sandy loam or clayey loam with pH ranging between 5.5 and 7 with sufficient soil depth is an ideal soil for litchi cultivation. Water-table should be atleast 1.5 to 2 m deep.

Climate

In litchi-growing tracts of India, the maximum temperature during flowering varies from 21° C in February to about 38 C in June. Winter frost and dry heat in summer considerably damage the growth of the plants. It causes fruit cracking and subsequently damages the pulp. Humidity is another important factor for the successful cultivation of litchi. Although it can grow up to an altitude of 800 m above the sea level, the best growth and yield is obtained at lower elevations. Well spread rainfall or adequate supply of irrigation water is essential for litchi cultivation. A constant rainfall at the time of
flowering however interferes with pollination.